DE&S at the Royal International Air Tattoo

For 50 years the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) has thrilled aircraft enthusiasts from all over the world, regularly attracting more than 200,000 people.

This year’s RIAT showcased numerous aircraft procured and supported by DE&S, including F-35B Lightning II, Typhoon, Poseidon, A400M, Hawk and Chinook, which wowed the crowds with static and aerial displays. In total, 253 aircraft from 25 different nations participate in the Tattoo.

Those attending the event, held at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, were joined by 48 Air Chiefs from all over the world, and none other than the Prince and Princess of Wales with their children.

Alongside the general public, the event was also an opportunity for governments, prime contractors, manufacturers, academics and influential aviation experts to meet and network.

One of the highlights was RIAT’s Techno Zone, where DE&S graduates and apprentices had an opportunity to showcase projects through interactive activities.

The first activity challenged participants to think outside the box by coordinating 3D-printed aircraft so that an F-35B jet could take off from the aircraft carrier in the quickest time. This was followed by a challenge for young engineers to see how fast they could assemble military jets, such as Typhoon, and compete for a place on the leader-board.