UK DEBUT FOR EYE-IN-THE-SKY PROTOTYPE

A state-of-the-art surveillance aircraft that flew for the first time last month will make its UK debut at the Royal International Air Tattoo next week.

The C295 Airbourne Early Warning and Control (AEW) demonstrator, which made its maiden flight on June 7 from Seville in Spain, will offer air forces a cost-effective advanced radar system to support a variety of operational activities including coastguard and homeland security. The turbo prop aircraft will arrive at RAF Fairford with a mushroom-shaped rotodome demonstrator on its roof, part of on-going flight trials to test the aircraft’s aerodynamics. The aircraft will go on static display.

A spokesman for the manufacturer Airbus Military said: “We’re delighted to give the C-295 AEW demonstrator its UK ‘premiere’ at the Air Tattoo. The aircraft is aimed at providing nations with a new and very cost effective, high quality 360° surveillance solution in the so far uncovered medium size market. It is based on the proven, rugged and versatile C295 platform and is to be equipped with the IAI/ELTA Systems’ 4th Generation Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar with integrated IFF.”

An Air Tattoo spokesman said: “Our airshow has long had a tradition of presenting new aircraft for the first time at a British event and the C295 AEW demonstrator is an exciting example. It is rare for demonstrators to attend airshows – especially those that have only just completed their maiden flight. We are extremely grateful to Airbus Military for allowing this rare aircraft to take a break from its test programme in order to join us for our 40th anniversary.”

This summer’s Air Tattoo will be marking its 40th anniversary and hosting a gathering of specially-decorated ‘Tiger’ aircraft from the NATO Tiger Association. ‘Tiger’ aircraft come from NATO squadrons that have a Tiger or Big Cat in their emblem and their association marks its 50th anniversary in 2011. The ‘operational’ spotlight STAR 11 will focus on aircraft and equipment involved in the roles of Strike and Reconnaissance.

Tickets are available by visiting www.airtattoo.com or calling 0800 107 1940. All tickets must be purchased in advance. All accompanied under-16s go free.