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For the first time in its history, the Red Arrows will be under the leadership of a woman. Wing Commander Sasha Nash has succeeded Wing Commander Adam Collins as the top officer of the Royal Air Force’s renowned aerobatic display team. Nash described this role as the “opportunity of a lifetime,” expressing immense pride in her new position and a hope to inspire future aviators from diverse backgrounds.
The team, which has showcased its precision flying across more than 50 countries, faced criticism in 2023 following an inquiry that revealed a culture where predatory behavior toward women was “widespread and normalised.” Despite these challenges, Nash steps into her command with a distinguished background as a former Tornado pilot who has completed tours in Afghanistan. She is now responsible for leading around 150 RAF and civilian staff at the team’s headquarters located at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire.
Reflecting on her journey, Nash shared that her passion for aviation began at a very young age. “I was a six-year-old little girl when I decided to join the Royal Air Force and to fly fast jets – inspired by air shows and seeing the speed and excitement of aircraft displaying at those events,” she explained. This early ambition guided her through school, where she earned a sixth form scholarship and later a university bursary to join the RAF, ultimately shaping her career path.
Nash also acknowledged the efforts of her predecessor, Wing Cmdr Adam Collins, who led the team during its 60th anniversary season and oversaw a five-week tour in Canada. She praised his dedication to both the Red Arrows and the RAF. Collins expressed confidence in Nash’s leadership, saying, “I am confident that, under her leadership, the Red Arrows will continue to demonstrate our recipe of precision, excellence and teamwork across the globe.” In early 2024, Collins remarked that the team had moved past the earlier harassment claims, emphasizing his commitment to fostering an environment where everyone feels “included, valued and respected.
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