Scotland has emerged as a leading contender to build the next generation of Red Arrows aircraft following a strategic deal signed between British jet manufacturer Aeralis and Glasgow Prestwick International Airport.
The agreement, announced at the Ayrshire Festival of Flight on Saturday, paves the way for Prestwick to become the assembly site for the Royal Air Force aerobatic team’s replacement planes. The Red Arrows’ current Hawk T1 jets are due to retire in 2030, leaving the RAF to secure a successor platform.
Aeralis is currently the only UK firm designing and building a manned light jet capable of taking on the role. Under the proposals, aircraft parts would be manufactured at sites across the country and brought together for final assembly in Ayrshire.
Tristan Crawford, chief executive of Aeralis, said: “Today’s agreement means that Scotland is a strong contender to build the next generation of aircraft for the Red Arrows here at Prestwick. Imagine the inspiration of aircraft proudly assembled in Ayrshire thrilling crowds at a future International Ayr Show.”
The partnership also includes plans to work with local aerospace firms and Ayrshire College to create training and apprenticeship programmes, strengthening skills pipelines for the sector.
Prestwick Airport, which has been publicly owned since 2013, is positioning itself as a hub for aerospace innovation. Chief executive Ian Forgie described the agreement as “the foundation stone that will return Scotland to its deserved place as a first-tier aviation nation”, adding that it could bring significant investment and long-term employment opportunities.
Central Ayrshire MP Alan Gemmell welcomed the announcement, noting the deal “could lead to hundreds of well-paying jobs here in Ayrshire – with potential for hundreds more”.
If confirmed, the project would secure a flagship role for Scotland in one of the UK’s most recognisable military aviation programmes, while reinforcing the long-term future of Prestwick as a centre for advanced aerospace manufacturing.
