RAF Red Arrows to tour US to mark 250 years of American independence

"The Red Arrows are to tour the US this summer to mark 250 years of American independence. More than two centuries after the US rejected British rule at the point of a musket, the team will appear at 13 events across seven states, while Royal Navy ships will also attend celebrations in New Orleans and New York."

"It follows a state visit from King Charles last month which also marked the anniversary and was seen as a way to try to ease relations with the US, the UK's strongest and closest security ally, which have come under strain since Donald Trump re-entered the White House."

"The President has continually warned Britain and other European countries to increase defence spending or he could pull out of Nato, as well as railing against Labour's North Sea policies and hitting out at Keir Starmer."

"Defence minister Lord Coaker said the move would demonstrate that the defence relationship between our nations is built on unparalleled trust, professionalism and shared purpose. British and American forces have served together with distinction for generations."

The Red Arrows are scheduled to tour the United States this summer to mark 250 years of American independence, appearing at 13 events across seven states. Royal Navy ships will also attend celebrations in New Orleans and New York. The tour follows a state visit by King Charles that aimed to ease strained relations between the US and the UK. The strain has increased since Donald Trump re-entered the White House. The President has warned Britain and other European countries to raise defense spending or risk withdrawal from NATO. The President has also criticized Labour’s North Sea policies and attacked Keir Starmer. Defence minister Lord Coaker said the move would show the defense relationship is built on trust, professionalism, and shared purpose.

Read at www.independent.co.uk