The non-statutory inquiry (NSI) from the Ministry of Defence, which is heavily redacted, said sexual harassment and other forms of unacceptable behaviour on the elite squadron were widespread and “normalised”. It said behaviour could be “shockingly inappropriate” and “predatory”.
A “bystander culture” surrounding the 120-strong team, including pilots, engineers and support staff, meant poor behaviour was rarely challenged, with leading team figures regularly mixing with celebrities and enjoying a star-like status. This led to a culture, even among those who had experienced harassment, of not wishing to harm the careers of others.
