Letchworth Air Cadets visited RAF Waddington to meet the Red Arrows aerobatic team and find out how they operate.
Members of 248 Squadron were welcomed with an introductory presentation by Group Captain Lewis Cunningham, commander of the RAF Display and Historic Aircraft Group.
The cadets then attended a live briefing for a training sortie held by Red One Squadron Leader John Bond, followed by a visit to the engineering hangar to see Hawk aircraft being serviced.
Despite the bad weather, the Hawkes took off and put on their planned local display, which the cadets watched from the team's private viewing area.
Once the aircraft had returned, a debriefing took place to discuss tactics and the pilots' performance.
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A spokesman for the 248 Letchworth Squadron Air Cadets said: "It was a great day out and an exciting, unique experience.
"More visits to RAF bases are being planned so now is a good time to take advantage of these opportunities by becoming a cadet or adult staff member."
Anyone interested can get in touch by emailing 248@rafac.mod.gov.uk or calling 01462 482794.
The Red Arrows, officially known as the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, has been based at RAF Waddington since it was formed in 1964.
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