Red Arrows in Newtownards for Armed Forces Day
Niamh Campbell and Kirsten Elder
Yesterday at 19:57
The Red Arrows took to the skies above Northern Ireland on Saturday, with a headline display at Newtownards Airfield as part of this year’s Armed Forces Day celebrations.
The Royal Air Force aerobatic team, renowned for their precision flying and dramatic formations, made their only Northern Ireland appearance of the year today, with their display taking place at 2:15pm over the Co Down town.
Armed Forces Day ran from 10:30am to 5:00pm and is free to attend.
Organisers promised a packed programme, including air shows, live music, interactive STEM exhibits, and family-friendly activities, all celebrating the contribution of the Armed Forces community.
Armed Forces Day provided a unique opportunity for the public to gain insight into the work of the UK Armed Forces and to show support for the entire military community — from active personnel and veterans to cadets and their families.
The free event featured a packed schedule of activities designed to engage visitors of all ages, with this year’s line-up described as one of the most impressive to date.
Highlights included dazzling aerial displays by the Red Arrows, the Royal Air Force’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and The Falcons, the RAF’s premier military parachute display team. On the ground, attendees had the chance to explore a range of military exhibits and equipment not typically accessible to the public, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at life in the Armed Forces.