RAPTOR VIES FOR CENTRE STAGE AT AIR TATTOO

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ROYAL AIR FORCE FAIRFORD, England --  The USAF's F-22A Raptor will be vying for centre stage when it performs its first aerial display outside of the United States at the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford on July 12-13.

The F-22A Raptor, flown by Maj Max Moga, represents a new generation of fighter incorporating state-of-the-art stealth technology, sophisticated weaponry and vectored thrust giving it an unrivalled combination of secrecy, power and manoeuvrability. The Raptor's display will be its first ever outside the US.

From Langley AFB, VA, the Raptor East Demo Team will be based at RAF Fairford during their UK visit.

Also taking part in the Air Tattoo will be eight of the world's greatest aerobatics display teams, including the "Wings of Portugal", which was formed in 1977 especially to take part in the Air Tattoo. Alongside them will be the Patrouille de France, the Escuadrilla de Alta Acrobacia 'Halcones' from Chile, the Esquadrilha da Fumaca from Brazil, the Turkish All-stars, the Patrouille Suisse the Indian Air Force's Sarang Helicopter Display team and, of course, the legendary RAF Red Arrows.

This summer's Air Tattoo will be staging official celebrations marking the 90th anniversary of the Royal Air Force. Taking part will be a range of aircraft from the historic Lancaster, Spitfire, Hurricane, Hunter, Sopwith Triplane and Dakota to current operational fast jets such as the Typhoon, Tornado and Harrier.

Highlights will include a dramatic World War One dogfight featuring 10 historic warbirds plus an explosive demonstration highlighting the hi-tech capabilities of RAF aircraft currently in service around the globe.

In all, up to 350 aircraft, ranging from fast jets and giant transporters to helicopters and historic aircraft from yesteryear, will be representing countries including Norway, Hungary, India, Canada and Pakistan.

But there's far more to enjoy at the Air Tattoo than just the fabulous flying. On the ground, youngsters can meet the pilots and sit in the aircraft, or they can enjoy the critically-acclaimed Tri@RIAT attraction spanning many acres of the showground, which brings together a feast of entertaining and interactive activities designed to inspire and excite young minds.

After the flying has finished, there's a free two-hour outdoor evening concert featuring the legendary Royal Air Force Squadronaires who'll be swinging their way through the music of the past 90 years.

With free parking and free entry for accompanied youngsters aged under-16, the Royal International Air Tattoo offers unbeatable value for all the family.

The Royal International Air Tattoo is held in support of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust, which has handed out around £500,000 in grants during the past three years to the RAF and its family of charities.

For more details, visit www.airtattoo.com or call the Air Tattoo Box Office on 0870 758 1918.