For model builders passionate about aviation, few subjects combine elegance, history, and technical sophistication like the BAe Hawk T.1 in its iconic Red Arrows livery. This advanced trainer jet, flown by the Royal Air Force’s renowned aerobatic team, offers a wealth of stories, technical features, and fascinating history that make it a rewarding project for both novice and experienced modelers alike.
Who Are the Red Arrows?
Before diving into the Hawk T.1 itself, it’s essential-especially for non-British readers-to understand the Red Arrows. Officially known as the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows are the RAF’s premier display team, famous worldwide for their precision flying and dazzling aerobatic displays. Founded in 1964, the team has become a symbol of British aviation excellence and esprit de corps, performing at airshows and public events globally, thrilling audiences with their tight formations, synchronized maneuvers, and signature red, white, and blue smoke trails.
The Red Arrows have set numerous records and milestones. For example, they hold the world record for the most aircraft airborne in a loop (nine aircraft) and are known for their complex formations such as the “Diamond Nine.” Their displays combine skill, discipline, and artistry, making them a beloved institution in the UK and admired by aviation enthusiasts worldwide.
The BAe Hawk T.1: A British Aviation Marvel
The BAe Hawk is a British single-engine, jet-powered advanced trainer aircraft developed in the early 1970s. The prototype first flew in August 1974, and the Hawk T.1 entered RAF service in late 1976, replacing older trainers like the Folland Gnat and Hawker Hunter.
Designed for agility and high performance, the Hawk allows trainee pilots to experience near-transonic speeds, reaching Mach 0.88 in level flight and up to Mach 1.15 in a dive, which was remarkable for a trainer aircraft of its era.
The Hawk T.1 features a tandem two-seat cockpit, low-mounted cantilever wings, and is powered by a Rolls-Royce Turbomeca Adour Mk.951 turbofan engine producing about 29 kN of thrust. It is praised for its excellent roll rate and turn handling, making it ideal for aerobatics and advanced pilot training. The aircraft also has a maximum takeoff weight of around 9,100 kg and a wingspan of just under 10 meters.
Though primarily a trainer, the Hawk T.1 was also adapted for light combat roles, including carrying a 30mm ADEN cannon pod and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles in its Hawk T.1A variant, which was intended for short-range interception and ground attack in wartime scenarios. The RAF even used Hawks for target towing and simulated combat training aboard Royal Navy ships.
The Hawk T.1 in the Red Arrows
The Red Arrows adopted the Hawk T.1 in 1979, making it their signature aircraft for over four decades. The Hawk’s agility, reliability, and performance made it perfect for the demanding aerobatic routines that the team performs. The aircraft’s smoke system, which releases colored smoke trails during displays, adds to the visual spectacle and is a hallmark of Red Arrows performances.
The team’s Hawks are meticulously maintained and painted in the distinctive bright red livery with white and blue accents, symbolizing the UK’s national colors. The Hawk T.1’s cockpit is equipped with ejection seats and modern avionics, enabling pilots to perform complex maneuvers safely.
The BAe Hawk T.1 Red Arrows Model Kit: A Perfect Build for Aviation Enthusiasts
For model builders, the BAe Hawk T.1 Red Arrows kit offers an exciting opportunity to recreate a piece of aviation history. This 1:72 scale model, measuring 16.1 cm in length with a wingspan of 13.0 cm, contains 70 individual parts and is rated Level 3, making it suitable for builders aged 10 and up, from beginners to advanced hobbyists.
The kit includes a highly detailed cockpit with authentic features such as ejection seats, airbrakes, and a smoke tank, reflecting the real aircraft’s complexity. The detailed construction manual guides builders through the assembly process, ensuring an enjoyable and educational experience.
One of the standout features of this kit is the set of authentic decals that allow modelers to replicate the exact Red Arrows version flown by the RAF at Scampton, England, circa March 2015. This attention to detail helps capture the vibrant and precise markings that make the Red Arrows’ Hawks instantly recognizable.
Whether displayed as a static model, used as a collectible, or even as a toy, this kit brings the excitement and elegance of the Red Arrows’ aerobatic performances into your home.
You could even imagine to build a scene with all 9 team members of the red arrows in a spectacular formation on your ceiling 🙂
Technical Highlights for Model Builders
- Scale and Dimensions: 1:72 scale; finished model length 16.1 cm, wingspan 13.0 cm.
- Parts and Detail: 70 parts including detailed cockpit, ejection seats, airbrakes, and smoke tank.
- Decals: Authentic Red Arrows markings from 2015 RAF Scampton.
- Skill Level: Level 3, suitable for ages 10+ and ranging from beginners to advanced builders.
- Versatility: Ideal for display, play, or as a collector’s piece.
The BAe Hawk T.1 in Red Arrows colors is more than just an aircraft; it is a symbol of British aviation heritage, precision flying, and team spirit. For model builders, assembling this kit is a chance to connect with that legacy, to appreciate the technical excellence of the Hawk, and to celebrate the artistry of the Red Arrows’ displays.
Whether you are a beginner eager to dive into model building or an experienced hobbyist looking for a detailed and rewarding project, the BAe Hawk T.1 Red Arrows model kit offers a perfect blend of challenge, history, and beauty. Bring home a piece of the skies and recreate the thrilling spectacle of the Red Arrows in your own workshop.
Inspirations for you build
Here we put together some interesting videos and insights into the Hawk and the Red Arrows:
A Tour around the plane:
Take a seat in the Cockpit of the Red Arrow Hwak over the Skyline of New York
and of course a complete Show of the Red Arrows for their 60th anniversary: