BRITAIN’S Red Arrows display team may trade in its iconic fleet for Russian-designed jets — sparking fury.
The M-346s are being considered by RAF chiefs who need to retire ageing Hawks.
Replacing the aerobatic team’s iconic 50-year-old planes with Russian designed jets would be “outrageous”;, Tories said last night.
The RAF could have to turn to as the factory that made the BAE Hawks closed in 2020 and the leading UK alternative is years away.
That may mean switching to Russian-designed jets, despite the Red Arrows’ publicly stated role of showcasing British industry and “reinforcing the reputation of the UK”;.
Last night Tory Shadow Defence Secretary James Cartlidge said: “When the Red Arrows perform their brilliant air displays, their red, white and blue vapour trails represent the Union Jack — not the Russian tricolour.
“Taxpayers would think it extraordinary.”;
Tory MP Sir Alec Shelbrooke, a former defence minister, said the move would be “outrageous”;.
He added: “For a country which has stood strong alongside , it sends entirely the wrong message. It’s an insult to the thousands who have died.”;
Former Air Marshal Edward Stringer said the Red Arrows were supposed “showcase British, kit, training and expertise”;.
And former Chief Air Marshal Sir Mike Graydon warned: “This would be an extraordinary decision. There would be a strong reaction from the public.”;
Since being set up in 1954, The Red Arrows have flown British-made aircraft — first the Folland Gnat and then the BAE Hawk. Predecessors the Black Arrows flew British Hawker Hunters.
But the team’s Hawk T1s are due to be retired by 2030 while the newer Hawk T2s, desperately needed for pilot training, have been beset by engine problems.
They are due to go in 2040, but in November new Chief Air Marshal Sir Rich Knighton said: “I would like to replace the Hawk T2 as soon as we can.”;
Bristol-based Aeralis are the best-placed UK firm to step in, but are yet to make a prototype. Other options include a revamped BAE Hawk, a US trainer, or the Korean KAI T-50 Golden Eagle.
But the Government confirmed it is considering the £19million Aermacchi M-346 jet — jointly developed by and .
Russian tyrant Putin has been pictured in the Russian version, known as the Yak-130, and has sold the fighter version to terrorist ally .
Defence Minister Maria Eagle said: “The Aermacchi M-346 fast jet trainer is one of several market options available.”;
The added: “We have not yet engaged the market on the future Red Arrows jet.”;
