Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Aerospace
  • /
  • Artist's tribute to RAF Centenary displayed at Arboretum

Aerospace Defence Events

Artist's tribute to RAF Centenary displayed at Arboretum

British artist David Bent - who has a long history producing aviation art, particularly focusing on RAF subjects such as the Red Arrows - has created a ‘Tribute 100’ collection as his own personal tribute to RAF100, the centenary of the formation of the Royal Air Force, which is currently on display at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.

Tribute 100 consists of a range of bold and colourful aircraft and propeller shapes in a graphical pop art style that invokes the spirit of the first 100 years of the RAF. The RAF was formed towards the end of the First World War, on 1 April, 1918, and is the oldest independent air force in the world.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle

The free exhibition is on display at the National Memorial Arboretum, the UK’s centre of remembrance until the end of June 2018.

The artist’s pioneering approach to aviation art has attracted widespread support, including many members of the force and the wider aviation community.

Advertisement
ODU RT

He has used a variety of aircraft and propeller shapes representing 100 years of existence, attempting to evoke ‘the spirit of that propulsive force that moves them forever forward, turning theory into evermore fantastical reality’. He said: “The Royal Air Force’s attitude has always been progressive and cutting edge, out there. For me, their motto Per Ardua ad Astra – from adversity to the stars – sums them up perfectly.

“From the earliest days, a century of hard work, imagination, skill and courage has taken the air force to the extremes of modernity and 3D space. This has provided the inspiration for my new collection of work."

The Arboretum has a wide range of RAF 100 events and activities taking place between April and July.

 

 

Advertisement
Babcock LB Babcock LB
Green aviation to get £43m boost

Aerospace

Green aviation to get £43m boost

21 January 2026

The aviation industry is set for a major boost as £43 million for green projects was announced by the UK Government today, aimed at supporting jobs and unlocking new investment.

Leonardo reduces ESG risk with Sustainalytics upgrade

Aerospace

Leonardo reduces ESG risk with Sustainalytics upgrade

21 January 2026

ESG research and ratings agency, Sustainalytics, has improved Leonardo’s ESG Risk Rating, reducing it to 22/100 from 29/100 (on a scale from zero to 100, where zero represents the best score), placing the Company third worldwide among aerospace & defence (A&D) companies.

IBA reveals 1,800 aircraft deliveries expected in 2026

Aerospace

IBA reveals 1,800 aircraft deliveries expected in 2026

21 January 2026

IBA's Chief Economist & Chief Data Officer, Dr Stuart Hatcher, has revealed his insights and predictions for the upcoming year as easing inflation, lower fuel prices and improving OEM production rates underpin a more stable outlook for airlines.

Smiths Detection delivers automated IRBS between South Korea and US

Aerospace Security

Smiths Detection delivers automated IRBS between South Korea and US

21 January 2026

Smiths Detection has enabled the launch of a fully automated International Remote Baggage Screening System (IRBS), setting a new global standard for cross-border aviation security and passenger processing between South Korea and the United States.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle
Newcastle Airport secures £364m refinancing package

Aerospace

Newcastle Airport secures £364m refinancing package

21 January 2026

Newcastle International Airport (NIAL) has successfully secured a new £364 million bank finance package, refinancing existing facilities and supporting its long-term growth ambitions and sustainability targets.

Base Materials develops proprietary LCA

Aerospace

Base Materials develops proprietary LCA

21 January 2026

Base Materials has developed a new proprietary Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) tool to calculate the carbon footprint of its full product portfolio, providing partners robust, transparent environmental data as part of their own sustainability and supply chain reporting.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
General Atomics LB