American airmen participate in Royal International Air Tattoo

U.S. military personnel from bases in Europe and the United States will participate in this year’s Royal International Air Tattoo July 14-16, 2017, at Royal Air Force Fairford, United Kingdom.

United States Air Forces in Europe designated this year’s airshow as a commemoration event to celebrate the U.S. Air Force’s 70th birthday. The theme for this event is, “American Airmen: Breaking Barriers since 1947.”

USAFE will honor the USAF’s 70th birthday by highlighting innovation, teamwork and heritage of the American airman during RIAT. U.S. participation in RIAT also emphasizes the strength of U.S. commitment to the security of NATO, our ever-strong alliance with the United Kingdom and our force interoperability with allies and partners from around the world.

Various U.S. military aircraft and equipment are scheduled to be on display including, but not limited to, the B-52 Stratofortess, B-1 Lancer, C-17 Globemaster, CV-22 Osprey, MC-130J Commando II and the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

The Thunderbirds and an F-22 team are also scheduled to provide a demonstration. The presence of these aircraft and service members at the show promotes our strong ties with NATO, Europe and our worldwide allies and partners.