Royal Air Force Red Arrows Announce Operation Eagle Hawk 2026 - Month-Long U.S. Tour Celebrating America250
The Red Arrows seen flying over New York in 2019.
The Royal Air Force Red Arrows have officially announced Operation Eagle Hawk 2026, a month-long tour to the United States this summer in celebration of 250 years of American independence. This announcement comes three months after Airshow News first reported that the Red Arrows were expected to make the trip across the pond this summer for America250 celebrations as well as a first-ever appearance at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.
Operation Eagle Hawk will consist of a series of spectacular displays and flyovers, including appearances in New York, Wisconsin, Maine, Maryland, and Michigan starting at the end of June and running through July. As of right now, the team has announced full displays at five air shows, along with participation in a major International Aerial Review taking place on July 4th in New York City. The International Aerial Review will be led by the United States Navy Blue Angels, and will consist of over 100 allied and U.S. aircraft. The Canadian Forces Snowbirds have also confirmed participation in the Independence Day event.
The Red Arrows’ participation in these America250 events is just part of the United Kingdom’s larger commitment to celebrating 250 years of American independence, with Royal Navy ships and the Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines also coming to the United States to participate. Operation Eagle Hawk acknowledges the historic and important relationship with the United Kingdom’s strongest and closest security partner.
Air Officer Commanding No. 1 Group, Air Vice-Marshal Mark Jackson, said:
“We’re honoured to accept the US military’s invitation for the Red Arrows to participate in these special Fourth of July events in the country’s 250th year.”
“The Royal Air Force has a long, proud history of working side-by-side with the Armed Forces of the United States, whether that be on operations and exercises or by joining with other allies as part of NATO.”
“I hope the Red Arrows’ trademark combination of close formation flying, speed and world-class precision will excite and inspire the hundreds of thousands of people attending these shows.”
The team will be displaying at many of the biggest events loved by British crowds both before and after the North American deployment.
The Red Arrows last toured the United States in 2019.
Wing Commander Sasha Nash, Officer Commanding of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, said:
“The whole Red Arrows team are greatly looking forward to visiting the United States – the tour is a fantastic opportunity to display the best of British, at significant events and occasions marking the 250th anniversary, alongside friends, allies and international counterparts. The tour will celebrate and underline the enduring relationship between the United Kingdom and our closest security partner.”
“The power to inspire through aviation is something felt by airshow crowds on both sides of the Atlantic and we’re hoping to meet countless individuals and families at these locations, as well as during a busy programme of ground engagement that forms an important element of the tour and our season as a whole.”
“An enormous amount of work continues to go into the planning for the visit, by teams in the UK and US, and we’re excited and honoured to bring our signature display of red, white and blue to some of the biggest, most well-known airshows and events this summer.”
The Red Arrows are in the final phases of pre-season training, with the new aerobatic display expected to be seen by millions of people this summer.
For the latest regarding Operation Eagle Hawk 2026 as well as all America250 celebrations, be sure to stay tuned to both our website and social media.
