Wing Commander Sasha Nash has assumed command of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team (RAFAT), beginning her first full week as Officer Commanding of the Red Arrows. Describing the appointment as a career-defining moment, she said she was “incredibly proud and excited” to lead one of the world’s most recognised military display teams.

As Officer Commanding, Wg Cdr Nash is the most senior officer within RAFAT, with responsibility for the entire 150-strong unit comprising pilots, engineers and support personnel. Her remit spans all aspects of the team’s activity, including safety, display operations, engineering and public engagement. She succeeds Wing Commander Adam Collins, who has completed a highly successful three-year tour in command.

Wg Cdr Nash joined the Royal Air Force in 2005 and brings extensive fast-jet experience to the role. Originally from Surrey, she flew the Tornado GR4 on frontline operations and exercises around the world. Immediately prior to taking command of the Red Arrows, she served as Chief of Staff in the Display Wing Headquarters, working closely with both the Red Arrows and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

Reflecting on her appointment, Wg Cdr Nash said the opportunity would have seemed unimaginable two decades ago. She praised the professionalism and commitment of the team she now leads, describing them as exemplifying the ethos and values found across the RAF. She added that she was looking forward to working with the unit to maintain the standards of excellence for which the Red Arrows are globally renowned.

Her passion for aviation was sparked at an early age through attending airshows, an experience that shaped her ambition to fly fast jets. That determination carried her through school and university, supported by a sixth-form scholarship and a subsequent RAF bursary. Now, as Officer Commanding RAFAT, she says she is proud to lead a team whose role is not only to represent the UK but also to inspire future generations of aviators from all backgrounds.

Wg Cdr Nash takes command at a busy time for the team. Preparations for the forthcoming display season are already under way, with training managed by Red 1, the team leader responsible for designing the aerobatic show. The first public displays of the summer are typically scheduled for late May or early June.

Paying tribute to her predecessor, Wg Cdr Nash acknowledged Wing Commander Collins’ dedication and depth of experience, noting the respect he has earned both within the team and across the wider display community. She congratulated him on a successful tenure and an exemplary RAF career, wishing him well for the future.

Wg Cdr Collins spent seven years with the Red Arrows across two tours, initially serving as Red 10, the team’s safety supervisor and ground-based commentator, before returning to command the unit from the 2023 season. His time as Officer Commanding included the Red Arrows’ landmark 60th diamond anniversary season in 2024, as well as a high-profile tour to Canada.

Also a former Tornado pilot, Wg Cdr Collins reflected that, despite flying a red jet around the world and participating in major international events, the highlight of his time with the team was working with its people. He emphasised the unique challenges of operating the Hawk T1 in a demanding display environment, often launching nine or more aircraft multiple times a day, frequently away from the team’s home base. He credited the dedication of pilots, engineers and support staff for ensuring the Red Arrows continue to entertain and inspire audiences worldwide.

As he handed over command, Wg Cdr Collins expressed confidence that under Wg Cdr Nash’s leadership, the Red Arrows would continue to demonstrate their hallmark precision, excellence and teamwork on the global stage.