Jet engines and air power will take centre stage at the Royal International Air Tattoo this year.

The annual spectacular at RAF Fairford will have the double theme of fast jet combat air power and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance for its 2020 edition.

Taking place from July 17 to July 19, the event will feature fighter aircraft from different time periods as well as the latest technology.

This will see the UK F-35B Lightning and new RAF P-8A Poseidon appear at the show, along with other aircraft including CL-604 Challenger jets from the Royal Danish Air Force.

A spokesman for the Air Tattoo said: “Fast jet pilots are traditionally considered the elite among aircrew because they get to fly some of the fastest, most manoeuvrable and dynamic aircraft in the world.

“However, there is far more to being a ‘top gun’ than many people imagine.

“While we recognise the common perception of fast jet pilots as being glamorous and as having one of the coolest jobs on the planet, we also want to make people aware of the huge team working behind the scenes to ensure overall mission success.”

Also new for this year are three add-on experiences that offer a variety of ways to enjoy the show. This includes the new hospitality suite 1971 which pays tribute to the first year the show was held as it approaches its 50th anniversary.

For the cost of £350 plus the admission ticket, visitors to the suite are treated to all-day catering, an inclusive bar, barista coffee all-day, a private garden with unreserved outdoor lounge and private toilets.

With the airshow marking the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, visitors can expect to see aerial set pieces featuring historic warbirds in a tribute to those who flew and fought in that campaign.

Tickets for the Air Tattoo are on sale from www.airtattoo.com now and the usual promotion of under-18s going free when accompanied by a full-paying adult continues this year.