Providing advanced pilot and weapons delivery training for a new, or converting student pilot is perhaps one of the most important duties undertaken by any of the world's air forces. For Royal Air Force students, this means many hours spent in the cockpit of the British Aerospace Hawk advanced jet trainer, which has now been in service for forty years. Replacing the diminutive Folland Gnat trainer, the Hawk proved to be a highly adaptable and extremely reliable aircraft in service, with large numbers serving with the RAF and many overseas air forces. Perhaps the Hawk is most famous for its association with the world famous Royal Air Force Aerobatic Display Team, the Red Arrows, who enjoy a reputation for excellence the world over.