Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Red Arrows may be axed

Monday 20 December 1993 19:02 EST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

The RAF's Red Arrows aerobatics team may be axed because of defence budget cuts, defence sources confirmed yesterday. Also under threat are the Parachute Regiment's Red Devils parachute display team and the Royal Tournament, the annual military extravaganza held at Earls Court in London.

A study team is to decide whether there are sufficient funds to pay for them at a time when pounds 2.28bn of cuts must be found by 1997. In a 'Defence Cost Study' - the word 'review' is avoided - the MoD could also end up buying second-hand military equipment in its efforts to save cash.

Over the next three months, study teams, including representatives from the Treasury, will look at 15 main areas. MoD mandarins and senior officers yesterday were wondering: 'Which sacred cows will have to be shot?'

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in