First E-7 Wedgetail makes debut flypast with Red Arrows

The first British E-7 Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft has made its first ever flypast with the Red Arrows at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025 in Gloucestershire.

The Boeing-built E-7 AEW Mk1, still undergoing acceptance and flight trials, joined the nine Hawk jets of the RAF Aerobatic Team in a mixed formation flypast viewed by a crowd of more than 50,000. The flypast was followed by a ‘touch and go’ manoeuvre before the Wedgetail returned to Birmingham Airport.

“The Wedgetail appearance at RIAT not only reinforces the hard work and collaboration of all those contributing to the project but also reflects the importance of delivering the next generation of airborne surveillance and control capabilities to support the RAF’s operational effectiveness in the years to come,” said Group Captain Osselton, Programme Director for the E-7 Programme.

The E-7’s RIAT flypast comes as it continues flight testing ahead of formal entry into RAF service with No. 8 Squadron at RAF Lossiemouth, where it will join the RAF’s P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft fleet. Both platforms are based on the Boeing 737 Next Generation airframe, allowing for increased training and logistical efficiencies.

Squadron Leader Jon Bond, Red 1 and Team Leader of the Red Arrows, said: “Whether it’s the Red Arrows’ history-making, world-first use of sustainable fuels at this year’s RIAT or the introduction of E-7 Wedgetail, both showcase the RAF’s commitment to constant, cutting-edge innovation. I hope those watching the flypast were able to take plenty of photographs to mark this special mixed formation and true highlight of the 2025 Air Tattoo.”

The E-7 Wedgetail is widely regarded as the most capable airborne early warning and control aircraft in operational service today. Built around the Northrop Grumman MESA radar, the aircraft offers a 360-degree surveillance capability, tracking airborne and maritime threats while providing real-time battle management across multiple domains.

Mission crews will operate from a suite of high-specification consoles to direct air and maritime forces, ensuring continuous awareness and control over contested airspace. The system is designed to enhance the lethality and survivability of allied assets in high-threat environments.

“Today’s flight is an amazing testament to the work of our integrated Boeing and UK supplier team, in partnership with the RAF,” said Stu Voboril, Boeing Vice President and E-7 Program Manager.

“Our work reflects the pride we take in supporting the strategic alliance among the UK, U.S., and allies, and the role the E-7 plays in strengthening global joint force mission advantage.”

The UK has ordered three Wedgetail aircraft, down from an original five, as a replacement for the retired E-3D Sentry fleet. The platform’s introduction has been delayed but is expected to deliver a step change in RAF command and control capability once operational.