Red Arrows announce new Officer Commanding

The Red Arrows have announced a new Officer Commanding (OC).

Wing Commander Adam Collins carried out his first full day in the position on Friday and in the role of OC, will be responsible for both the air and ground teams that deliver the Red Arrows’ world-renowned displays.

He will command the 140-strong unit, which includes RAF regular and reserve personnel, civil servants and contractors.

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Wg Cdr Collins, a former frontline Tornado fast jet pilot, will ensure the RAF Aerobatic Team can complete their busy engagement programme and project "soft" power at home and overseas, the RAF said. 

The new Red Arrows chief said he was "delighted" to have taken over the role and "honoured to be leading such a hard-working and talented team of military and civilian personnel".

"We are all proud to represent the Royal Air Force and the United Kingdom and will continue to endeavour to inspire our audiences both at home and overseas," he said.

"There's a very busy year ahead, where the team will be performing for millions of people across the globe, I hope we get to meet as many of them as possible at the events."

He added that becoming the Officer Commanding was an opportunity to inspire the next generation of aviators.

"My interest in aviation was sparked from an early age when, as a child, I'd watch jets flying from RAF Valley near my grandparents' house in Anglesey," he said.

"Through the Red Arrows’ displays and engagements, I've been fortunate enough to see that same wonder – sparked by the power of aviation – when meeting young people at events.

"It's very important we continue to harness that curiosity and encourage the next generation to look at a future involving the subjects of science, technology, engineering and maths."

The Red Arrows are preparing for this year’s display season, expected to begin in late May, following their return from a successful tour to the Gulf.

Wg Cdr Collins has taken over the role from Wg Cdr David Montenegro.

Wg Cdr Montenegro was suspended from his post in November last year as an investigation was carried out into an alleged relationship with a junior member of his team.

The RAF said on Friday Wg Cdr Montenegro completed his scheduled two-and-a-half-year posting with the team yesterday (Thursday 12 January).

Departing OC Wg Cdr Montenegro said: "I'd like to pay tribute to the current team, for their dedication and hard work – these are extremely talented people, found in every section and role in the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team.

"From the impact of the pandemic to moving to a new home base and two challenging overseas tours in consecutive seasons, the last two-and-a-half years have been full of unprecedented challenges.

"However, the team has never lost its focus to safely deliver displays and events and I am extremely proud of their resilience, determination and professionalism. I wish Adam and the team the very best for the future."