MILITARY aircraft from across the decades will wow hundreds of spectators at the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford on July 17 and 18.

The show at the Gloucestershire airbase, which supports the RAF Charitable Trust, will also stage the RAF’s flagship commemoration for the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

An air tattoo spokesman said: “We’re particularly looking forward to staging this summer’s airshow because there is such a variety of attractions on offer.

“Aircraft range from rare historic warbirds to the latest fast jets – even aircraft never before seen in the UK.

“And on the ground, there’s something for everyone – plus loads more. It’s shaping up to be a very special air tattoo.”

The commemoration of the Battle of Britain will involve dramatic dogfights, a stirring international flypast and a moving ‘missing man’ formation.

Visitors will be able to enjoy the sight of a wide range of rare and historic aircraft, including Hurricanes, Spitfires and Messerschmitts, taking to the sky alongside their modern-day equivalents.

The record-breaking seven-and-a-half-hour flying display will also feature some of the world’s most exciting fast jets, including the F-22 Raptor, the RAF Typhoon, and the gravity-defying Harrier.

The show will feature a host of thrilling aerobatic display teams from around the globe, including the Red Arrows and the French Air Force Patrouille de France.

On the ground there will be a wide range of entertainment for all the family, including motorcycle and stunt car teams, flight simulators, battling robots, concerts and a fun fair. The air tattoo will also be staging its largest-ever classic car display and there will be the opportunity to see a large model of Bloodhound SSC jet-propelled car, which is set to challenge for the world land speed record.

On Sunday only, Britain’s Got Talent finalists and stars of Streetdance 3D, Flawless, will wow visitors when they give a show-stopping dance demo.

Sunday morning will also see Top Gear star James May make an appearance in the Airfix tent to sign copies of his Toy Stories’ books.

Tickets priced at £37.50 for day-specific tickets or £42.50 valid for either Saturday or Sunday, must be bought in advance. All accompanied under-16s go free and parking is free.

For more information, visit www.airtattoo.com or call the ticketline on 0800 107 1940.