The Red Arrows to publish its official history with Penguin Random House’s Century

The world-famous aerobatics display team division of the Royal Air Force, The Red Arrows, is to publish its official history with Century, an imprint of Penguin Random House, thanks to a new deal brokered by IMG. The book will be published in hardback, audio, and e-book on April 29th, 2021.

Called the Red Arrows: The Story of Britain’s Iconic Display Team, the title is written by head of the Red Arrows, Wing Commander David Montenegro, a former Red 1 and Red Arrows team leader. The title will feature tales from Red Arrows pilots, past and present, as it celebrates the division’s history of courage, daring, and skill of the past 50 years.

The book will also provide an insight on how the team represents the RAF and the United Kingdom around the world, its important role and work.

David Montenegro, Officer Commanding, Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, said: “Ever since our first dynamic display, the Red Arrows has aimed to inspire and enthrall through precision and teamwork – showcasing the excellence of the Royal Air Force, worldwide.

“Much of this activity, and the strength and success of the team, is achieved through the tireless application, innovation and dedication of our highly-trained personnel – individuals who have served operationally, helping the RAF to secure the skies and protect our nation.

“I hope readers, who may have seen one of our nearly 5,000 displays since 1965, or perhaps just have an interest in high-performing teams, will gain a new, unique and colourful perspective on the Red Arrows. However, above all, I want to bring all of the excitement, speed and vibrancy synonymous with a world-class Red Arrows show to even more people through a book illustrating the very best of British.”

Jess Ballance, editor at Century, Penguin Random House, added: “We couldn’t be more proud and excited to be publishing The Red Arrows. It grants readers a fascinating pilot’s-eye perspective of what it means to fly in those iconic aircraft. This book is a true celebration of the Red Arrows, one of Britain’s national treasures, and their fascinating history, featuring personal stories from the people behind the planes and exploring the skills and incredible mindset of the world-class Red Arrows pilots.”

Ballance commissioned world rights to the project from IMG, the Ministry of Defence’s exclusive licensing representative.