RAF chiefs slammed for using Gen Z slang in recruitment video
- RAF has faced consistent failure to meet recruitment targets over the past decade.
- The military has started using Gen Z slang in marketing efforts to appeal to younger audiences.
- Some veterans express concerns that such tactics undermine military traditions.
In a bid to address declining recruitment numbers, RAF chiefs released a promotional video on Instagram for the Cosford airshow held in Shropshire, England. The video features Squadron Leader Chris Wilson, who uses popular Gen Z slang to appeal to younger audiences. This slang includes phrases such as 'the dopest event of 2025' and 'Tired of cheugy Air Shows with no rizz?'. The effort is part of a larger trend within the UK military, which has been facing significant recruitment challenges across all branches, including the Royal Navy and Army. Despite thousands of likes, the video has faced backlash from former military personnel who criticized the approach as demeaning and misaligned with military traditions. Instructors at HMS Raleigh have also been provided with a glossary of Gen Z slang to better connect with potential recruits. The military’s continuous struggle to meet recruitment targets stems from losing more personnel than they have been able to recruit, alarming officials about the state of the defense forces.