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Watch Red Arrows take a bite of Big Apple

July 4, 2026

The Royal Air Force's Red Arrows aerobatic team participated in a large-scale flyover celebration in New York City to commemorate the United States' 250th independence anniversary. The British squadron flew over the Hudson River near Manhattan's skyline, creating a display of red, white, and blue smoke configured to resemble the American flag. Wing Commander Jon Bond, who led the formation, described the event as a significant honor that demonstrates the strong ongoing relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States.

Who is affected

  • The Red Arrows aerobatic team based at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire
  • Wing Commander Jon Bond (team formation leader)
  • The American people and spectators watching the celebration
  • More than 150 other aircraft crews from around the world participating in the flypast
  • People in New York, Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Maine, Maryland, and Michigan (tour locations)

What action is being taken

  • The Red Arrows are carrying out a month-long tour of the United States called Operation Eagle Hawk, which includes performances in New York, Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Maine, Maryland, and Michigan to mark America 250.

Why it matters

  • This flyover demonstrates the enduring relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States, marking a major milestone in American history (250 years of independence). The invitation for Britain's premier aerobatic team to participate in this significant anniversary celebration symbolizes the strong diplomatic and military ties between the two nations and represents a substantial honor for the RAF.

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC