The Red Arrows, Tutor and Lancaster are among the attractions at the Northern Ireland Armed Forces Day event
The highly anticipated NI Armed Forces Day event is finally here, and it's scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 22nd, at Jordanstown Loughshore Park. The park will be transformed into a lively venue, filled with energy, enthusiasm, and patriotism.
The event promises to be an exciting and diverse experience for all visitors, with a wide range of attractions and displays to enjoy. From military displays to live music, there will be something for everyone to enjoy at the event. Visitors can browse through the various stalls and exhibits, showcasing different aspects of the armed forces, including vehicles, equipment, and uniforms.
One of the most highly anticipated highlights of the event will be a display by the Red Arrows, a world-renowned military aerobatic team from the UK. The team will perform a breathtaking aerial display to showcase their incredible flying skills and precision. Visitors can also look forward to enjoying a band performance by the Royal Irish Regiment, who will entertain the crowds with their upbeat and patriotic music.
Red Arrows at the Malta International Airshow in 2023
This will be the first time in five years that the Red Arrows have displayed in Northern Ireland and their first display season since 2021 as a nine-ship. The display will feature manoeuvres that have not been seen in a generation in the Red Arrows' routine. It will also be the only Red Arrows display in Northern Ireland this year as part of their sparkling milestone celebrations.
The Red Arrows have been inspiring generations for sixty years, and their aim is to inspire even more people during their diamond season. Their dynamic aerobatic display over the scenic shores of Belfast Lough will add a touch of magic to this special day, which honours the brave men and women of the Armed Forces.
In addition to the Red Arrows, the event will also feature other exciting air displays, including the RAF Tutor, a training aircraft used by the Royal Air Force, and the Lancaster, a World War II-era bomber, which is part of the iconic Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. These displays will form part of a sterling line-up for Armed Forces Day 2024, and are sure to captivate visitors with their aerial prowess and historical significance.
Moreover, military bands will play throughout the day, adding to the patriotic and celebratory atmosphere. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet and talk with serving personnel, who will be available to share their experiences and answer any questions you may have. You can also expect to see a range of military vehicles, weapons, and equipment on display, giving you a glimpse into the life of a soldier.
This event is a must-attend for anyone who appreciates the hard work and dedication of our armed forces. It is an opportunity to show your support and gratitude for the brave men and women who serve in the armed forces. So, come along and enjoy this exciting event that promises to be a memorable and inspiring experience for everyone.
Red Arrows
The Red Arrows, known officially as the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, is a highly skilled aerobatic display team based at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire, England. The team was formed in 1964, replacing a number of unofficial display teams that were sponsored by various RAF commands.
The Red Arrows are famous for their thrilling aerobatic displays, which are a regular feature of many British events and airshows. They have become an iconic part of British popular culture, and their badge features their aircraft in their signature diamond nine formation, with the motto Éclat, meaning "brilliance" or "excellence" in French.
The team initially flew seven Folland Gnat trainers, which they inherited from the RAF Yellowjacks display team. The aircraft was chosen because it was less expensive to operate than front-line fighters. During their first season, they performed at 65 shows across Europe. In 1966, the team was expanded to nine members, allowing them to develop their famous Diamond Nine formation.
In late 1979, the team switched to the BAE Hawk trainer, which is the aircraft they still use today. The Hawk is a fast and agile aircraft that is perfectly suited to the Red Arrows' precision displays. Since the team's formation, they have performed over 4,800 displays in 57 countries worldwide, showcasing the skill, dedication, and professionalism of the Royal Air Force.
Tutor
The Grob 115E, also known as the Tutor T Mark 1, is a fixed-wing aircraft designed and built specifically for the Royal Air Force (RAF). It was constructed in Mattsies, Germany, between 1999 and 2002.
Initially, the Tutor was used by No 1 Elementary Flying Training School, where it replaced the Bulldog T1. Later, it was transferred to No 6 FTS when the Military Flying Training Service was launched. The 6 FTS role is to provide a unique opportunity for students to experience the RAF's life and to attract ambitious and intelligent individuals into an RAF officer career. It does not mean the students have to join the RAF, but the squadrons seek to develop airpower advocates in those who do not opt for an RAF career.
In addition, there are 15 University Air Squadrons located across the UK, all linked to nearby universities, that offer opportunities for university students. These squadrons offer a chance to learn about the RAF, develop leadership skills, and undertake adventurous activities.
For younger individuals aged 12-17, over 1000 Air Cadet Squadrons and Combined Cadet Forces across the UK provide opportunities to get involved in flying, gliding, shooting, adventurous training, and much more.
The Tutor is also used by 3 FTS for Elementary Flying Training. It is an easy-to-handle, fully aerobatic aircraft that is excellent for teaching the basics of flight. Its advanced avionics and automated systems make it ideal for training and preparing pilots for more advanced aircraft.
Lancaster
The Avro Lancaster is considered to be the most famous and successful heavy bomber utilized by the Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War Two. It was developed and manufactured by Avro, a British aircraft company, and was specifically designed to conduct nighttime raids against Germany. The aircraft was equipped with powerful Rolls-Royce Merlin engines and could carry a maximum payload of 22,000 pounds.
Despite the fact that 7,377 Lancaster bombers were initially built, only two of them remain airworthy today. One of these two airworthy Lancasters, with the registration number PA474, was constructed on May 31st, 1945, at the Vickers Armstrong Broughton factory located in Hawarden Airfield, Chester. This specific aircraft was completed just after VE day and was never deployed in any hostilities.
The Lancaster aircraft played a crucial role during the war, taking part in numerous bombing campaigns against Germany, including the famous Dambusters raid that targeted several key dams in the Ruhr Valley. The aircraft's impressive performance, combined with its heavy armament and robust construction, made it a formidable weapon in the RAF's arsenal.
Today, the Lancaster remains an iconic symbol of British aviation history and is widely celebrated for its contribution to the Allied victory in World War Two.
