Military airshow to stage 2003 National Defence event

Citation

(2002), "Military airshow to stage 2003 National Defence event", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 74 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2002.12774dab.028

Military airshow to stage 2003 National Defence event

The Royal Air Force has nominated The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) at RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire, UK, to host a three-day Defence 2003 event from 18-20 July 2003, when the RAF will take the tri-Service lead in Taking Defence to the Nation'. The Defence 2000 series of events replaces the Royal Tournament at Earl's Court, following a UK's Ministry of Defence decision that called for a more extensive public forum to display the complexity and capability of the UK's modem Armed Forces.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Peter Squire, Chief of The Air Staff, says "The Defence 2000 series is an exciting development in the presentation of Britain's Armed Services to the nation, and in 2003 the RAF will be proud to act as host for this high-profile occasion. I am also delighted that The Royal International Air Tattoo, for three decades the world's largest and most prestigious military airshow, will provide the venue for Defence 2003."

2003 also marks 100 years of powered flight and this momentous anniversary will be celebrated alongside British Forces demonstrating their main role today, expeditionary operations. A fictional trouble spot somewhere in the world will be created on the airfield at RAF Fairford. Spectators will see the planning, equipment and mission expertise of all three Services in a realistic environment, enhanced by big screen coverage of the action as it unfolds. A century of aviation, and the achievements of aircraft designers and test pilots, will see a living history of period set pieces highlighting aircraft that have pushed back the frontiers of fight.

RIAT director Paul Bowen says "Most breakthroughs in aeronautical technology can be traced to defence needs, and it could not be more appropriate to link 100 Years of Aviation with Defence 2003. We are working closely with the RAF and a special tri-Service team to stage next year's most spectacular national event."

Around RIAT and Defence 2003, the RAF will be hosting the bi-annual Armed Forces Careers convention and the Chief of the Air Staff will head a conference of Air Force Commanders from round the world. Finally, it is intended that up to 20,000 young people will attend the RIAT/ Defence 2003 preview day on Friday 18 July 2003.