The Royal Air Force's world-famous aerobatic display team, the Red Arrows, has broken new ground by appointing its first female commander in history.
A Landmark Appointment for the Red Arrows
Wing Commander Sasha Nash is taking on the prestigious role of Officer Commanding (OC) of the team, effective from January 2026. This historic appointment sees her become the first woman to lead the unit since its formation in 1965.
The Officer Commanding holds ultimate responsibility for every aspect of the Red Arrows' operations. This encompasses the safety and execution of their breathtaking aerial displays, the engineering and maintenance of the iconic Hawk T1 jets, and all public engagement activities. Wg Cdr Nash will command the entire 150-strong unit, which includes both the elite pilots of the display team and the vital ground crew who support them.
The Career of a Pioneering Pilot
Wg Cdr Nash, who is originally from Surrey, is a highly experienced fast-jet pilot with a formidable operational background. She joined the Royal Air Force in 2005 and has flown the RAF's formidable Tornado GR4 combat aircraft on frontline duties and in major exercises across the globe.
She succeeds Wing Commander Adam Collins, who has just concluded a successful three-year tour in command of the team. Reflecting on her groundbreaking new role, Wg Cdr Nash said: "This is 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."
Leading a Team of Excellence
In her statement, the new commander paid tribute to the team she will now lead. "This is a team of dedicated, diligent and enthusiastic people – exemplifying the ethos and values found in units right across the RAF," she said. "I’m excited to work with them to continue to deliver the levels of excellence the Red Arrows are globally renowned for."
This appointment represents a significant moment for the Royal Air Force and for aviation in the United Kingdom, demonstrating the progressive career paths now open to women in all roles, including the most senior positions within its most visible public-facing team.
