A NATO flypast is set to thrill the crowds at next month's Royal International Air Tattoo.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation aircraft will showcase their power in a special 70th anniversary display over RAF Fairford – the only one of its kind taking place in the UK this year.

As one of the longest-lasting and most successful alliances in history, NATO works to safeguard the freedom and security of its member countries using crisis management and peacekeeping tactics. Since it was established in 1949, the alliance has grown from twelve to 29 members.

Aircraft taking part include Belgian Air Component’s LM F-16AM, the German Air Force’s Eurofighter EF2000s, A400M and Tornado strike aircraft, the Royal Danish Air Force’s F-16 fighters, the United States Air Force’s F-15 aircraft from RAF Lakenheath and the Royal Air Force’s Typhoon fighters.

Air Tattoo chief executive Andy Armstrong said: “The Air Tattoo has always performed an important role in developing a spirit of co-operation, friendship and integration; which is why we are delighted to organise a special tribute to mark the Alliance’s 70th anniversary”.

Spectators can also look forward to flying displays from the RAF Red Arrows, the Ukrainian Air Force’s Russian-built Sukhoi Su-27 and the Spanish Navy’s two vertical lift AV-8B Harriers.

Other aircraft highlights include an impressive static display featuring aircraft from across the world including the Ukrainian IL-76 ‘Candid’, the Royal Jordanian Air Force C120-H Hercules and the C-17 Globemaster.

Elsewhere, the showground boasts its critically-acclaimed Techno Zone® which is home to interactive and engaging hands-on exhibits to entice all the family, the Vintage Village, Activity Zone and RAF Experience.

The airshow runs from July 19-21. For tickets, see www.airtattoo.com