In a historic first for the Royal Air Force, the world-famous Red Arrows aerobatic team has appointed a woman as its commanding officer. Wing Commander Sasha Nash has taken on the role of Officer Commanding, becoming the most senior officer in the elite display unit's history.
A Landmark Appointment for the RAF
Wing Commander Nash, an experienced fast-jet pilot who joined the RAF in 2005, will now lead the 150-strong team. She takes over from Wing Commander Adam Collins, who held the position from early 2023. The Surrey-born officer described the promotion as "a career opportunity of a lifetime".
"If someone had told me, 20 years ago, that one day I’d be Officer Commanding of the Red Arrows, I don’t think I would have believed it," she stated. Nash praised the team's dedication and enthusiasm, which she said exemplified RAF values, and expressed excitement about maintaining the global standards of excellence for which the Red Arrows are renowned.
Steering Through a New Era
This appointment marks a significant moment for the team, which has faced scrutiny in recent years. In late 2022, a previous commander was removed from his post during an investigation into an alleged relationship with a junior team member. A subsequent 2023 report described a "hostile, degrading and humiliating" environment within the unit.
Wing Commander Nash now takes the helm as the team prepares for its new season, with training already underway and public displays typically beginning in late May or early June. She emphasised her pride in commanding a team that represents the UK and inspires future aviators from all backgrounds.
From Airshow Spectator to Team Leader
Nash revealed that her passion for aviation was sparked in childhood, inspired by airshows and "seeing the speed and excitement of aircraft displaying at those events." This ambition led her to secure a sixth-form scholarship and a university bursary to join the RAF.
"Two decades later, I am still thoroughly enjoying everything I do and seizing all of the opportunities and experiences a career in the Armed Forces provides," she added. The former England lacrosse player, who has represented her country at junior and senior levels, is eager to meet the public at events this year.
In a handover statement, outgoing commander Wing Commander Adam Collins wished Nash the best, expressing confidence that under her leadership, the Red Arrows would continue to demonstrate their trademark precision, excellence, and teamwork across the globe.
