Held annually in July at RAF Fairford, RIAT is one of the most prestigious military aviation and defence events worldwide. The show features flying and static displays of fighter jets, transport and tanker aircraft, airborne early warning platforms, unmanned aerial systems, and historic aircraft.

RIAT also serves as a strategic defence and deterrence showcase for NATO and allied nations. Defence companies, air force commands, and decision-makers engage through technology demonstrations, bilateral meetings, and operational capability displays.

Sectors of Participating Companies

• Defence and aerospace industry
• Military aircraft and helicopter manufacturing
• Radar, sensor, and electronic warfare systems
• Air defence and missile systems
• Unmanned aerial systems (UAS)
• Maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO)
• Space and satellite-based surveillance technologies

Importance for the Defence Industry

RIAT is one of the rare events where air defence systems, radar technologies, command-and-control infrastructures, and next-generation combat aircraft are demonstrated in an operationally realistic environment. It highlights interoperability among allied forces and provides a strong platform for future defence procurement programs and international cooperation.

Number of Participating Companies at the Previous Event

• The previous RIAT hosted approximately 200 defence and aerospace companies.

Most Significant Highlights of the Previous Event

• Multinational joint flight demonstrations by NATO and allied air forces
• Simultaneous displays of next-generation fighter aircraft and airborne early warning systems
• Integrated air power–focused demonstrations emphasizing modern air defence concepts