The Red Arrows were forced to cancel a display at the last minute this weekend, with the pilots issuing an apology to crowds of disappointed members of the public.
The aircraft were expected to close a planned show at Duxford Air Show near Cambridge; however, to the disappointment of 32,000 people in attendance, it had to be cancelled.
Explaining on X, the Red Arrows said: "Unfortunately, due to operational factors beyond the team's control at our base for this afternoon - RAF Mildenhall - we've had to cancel the planned show at Duxford.
The Imperial War Museum stated that it is not unusual for aircraft to withdraw "at short notice".
A display from the red arrows had to be suddenly cancelled
PAThe Red Arrows were due to appear at 4.30pm, but confirmed they would not appear through a social media post just after 5pm.
It follows news that UK bases in the Middle East are on heightened alert for drone strikes after the US bombed three nuclear sites in Iran.
Defence Secretary John Healey said UK Armed Forces protection is at its "highest level" after growing concerns the US's action could escalate the conflict.
UK bases across the Middle East have increased security, it is understood, with personnel on high alert for missiles, rockets and drone strikes.
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The news of the Red Arrows comes after the legendary aircraft could be reduced to running just six jets, down from 13.
Claims suggest that the iconic British display team is running out of usable parts to repair its aircraft, with reports indicating that the fleet may no longer be able to maintain its "diamond nine" formation.
The Ministry of Defence called the claims "false".
An RAF spokesperson said: "The Red Arrows will continue to use the Hawk to perform displays and flypasts until their out-of-service date and have sufficient aircraft in the fleet to do so.
"We continue to work closely with industry partners to ensure an appropriate number of aircraft will be available."
The arrows could be reduced to just six aircraft
PARussian jets could act as a replacement for the current Red Arrow fleet, which was formed 61 years ago.
Former Commandant of the Central Flying School, Gavin Mackay, said it was "wonderful" to fly with the Red Arrows.
Mackay told GB News: "I was a fighter pilot by trade... all the time I spent flying with the Red Arrows was one of the best experiences of my life.
"It is exciting. It is something, as a fighter pilot, you do not do every day.
"The whole experience of seeing the dedication, the hard work, the relentless self-criticism that were there in the displays was absolutely fantastic."
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