THE Royal Air Force’s much-debated next-generation airlifter will be unveiled to the British public in July when it makes its UK flying display debut at the Royal International Air Tattoo.

Airbus’s chief military test pilot Ed Strongman will be at the controls of the A400M when it displays at the airshow at RAF Fairford on July 17 and 18.

The aircraft, which is designed to fly troops and equipment, was due to go into service this year, but is now unlikely to be operational before 2012.

Its appearance will provide the first opportunity for the public to see the culmination of a two-decade long project to develop a future military transport aircraft.

The A400M will ultimately replace the RAF’s C-130 Hercules fleet. It can travel further and faster than most current in-service airlifters and can carry larger payloads. It is also far more flexible.

Chris Pocock, defence editor for Aviation International News, said: “When they first see it, most people will be surprised at the size of Europe’s new airlifter.

“Thanks to its huge turboprops mounted on a swept wing, the A400M combines a high cruising speed at altitude with excellent slow-speed tactical performance, and the capacity to carry a variety of large military and humanitarian loads.”

This summer’s Royal International Air Tattoo will feature around 300 aircraft from across the globe, including the US Air Force F-22 Raptor, Romanian Air Force MiG-21s and Polish Air Force Su-22s.

The event has also been chosen by the Royal Air Force to stage its flagship commemoration of the Battle of Britain, on its 70th anniversary.

In addition to the flying display, visitors can enjoy a large static aircraft park plus a wide range of ground-based activities including a concert stage, Battle of Britain ‘Village’, plus the interactive Tri@RIAT area for youngsters.

For details and to buy tickets, visit www.airtattoo.com