5th May 2025 at 4:40pm
A spectacular flypast has taken place as part of the 80th anniversary commemorations for Victory in Europe Day, marking the end of the war in Europe in 1945.
More than 1,300 personnel from the Armed Forces, uniformed services and youth organisations marched through central London, retracing a historic route from Parliament Square to Buckingham Palace.
After they arrived at the palace, their eyes turned to the skies for a five-minute flypast by 23 military aircraft.
- Crowds cheer as Red Arrows soar over Buckingham Palace to conclude flypast
- Flypast a symbol of how freedom was won 80 years ago and is being maintained today
- King takes salute as VE Day 80 commemorations begin with military parade
The flypast brought together some of the RAF’s most iconic aircraft – from the Lancaster bomber of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight to modern frontline fighters like the Typhoon and F-35B Lightning.
Leading the way
The first aircraft was the Avro Lancaster bomber, one of only two still flying anywhere in the world, which took off from RAF Waddington.
Operated by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, it symbolises the RAF’s role in the Second World War and the sacrifices made by Bomber Command.
Its deep engine note is instantly recognisable, and the aircraft also serves as a powerful reminder of the crews who never returned from their missions over Europe.
Modern might
Next, the Avro Lancaster was followed by the workhorses of the modern RAF.
The Voyager, the RAF’s largest aircraft, flew past the iconic palace in central London. The aircraft doubles as both an air-to-air refueller and a transport aircraft.
After that, the A400M Atlas flew past the spectators who lined the Mall. The A400M Atlas is a tactical airlifter capable of low-level flight and short-strip landings, which is regularly used on operations around the globe.
Behind them, the C-17 Globemaster thundered past. Known for its size and flexibility, it has become a staple of British military logistics, including in Afghanistan and disaster relief efforts.
Intelligence and strike power
The fourth wave brought aircraft at the cutting edge of intelligence and air defence.
A P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft soared above the dignitaries and the Royal family. The P-8 Poseidon is equipped for submarine hunting and surveillance.
Two Typhoon FGR4s, Britain’s frontline multi-role fighters, a Rivet Joint, used for electronic surveillance, and two F-35B Lightnings – the UK’s newest fast jets – flew next.
A classic finish
The flypast had a spectacular climax as nine Red Arrows flew in tight formation in Hawk jets, accompanied by four more F-35B Lightnings.
A national service of remembrance will take place at Westminster Abbey on Thursday 8 May.
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