First Aircraft for RIAT 2025 Announced
The first aircraft announcement for RIAT 2025 is here. The announcement marks the start of a series of updates as the biggest military airshow in the world prepares to take place at RAF Fairford from 18 to 20 July 2025. Organizers have begun revealing the participating aircraft, starting with a display that promises exciting jet noise and impressive aerobatics.
The headline announcement is the Finnish Air Force F/A-18C Hornet. This fighter jet, which has a history of winning awards for its flying displays, will perform a solo routine that has become a highlight at previous shows. The F/A-18 Hornet, originally developed from the Northrop YF-17 Cobra, entered service in the early 1980s and was later upgraded in 1987 to what is now known as the F/A-18C. Operating with enhanced radar, avionics, and weaponry, the aircraft has served with multiple forces around the world. Finland ordered its fleet in the mid-1990s, replacing older models and integrating modern self-protection systems. The display will be provided by HävLLv 11 from Rovaniemi in Lapland, promising a performance that fans of the airshow will not want to miss.
Finnish Air Force Hornet
Royal International Air Tatoo 2023
RIAT 2025 will centre its exhibits around the operational theme “Eyes in the Skies.” This theme highlights both modern military capabilities and the history of aerial reconnaissance. In line with this theme, the event has announced additional static aircraft. A Lithuanian Air Force AS365 N3+ Dauphin helicopter will be on static display. The Dauphin, a medium twin-engine helicopter known for its Fenestron tail rotor, first flew in 1975 and has set notable speed records. Acquired by Lithuania in 2013 for search and rescue missions, this instrument of regional security serves as an excellent example of modern reconnaissance support.
In addition to modern military aircraft, the show will also highlight historical reconnaissance. Two warbirds from Sywell will be displayed. The first is the Lockheed L-12 Electra Junior registration G-AFTL. This aircraft, once owned by aerial photography pioneer Sidney Cotton, represents one of the world’s most historic photo-reconnaissance platforms. The Electra Junior, a variant of the larger Lockheed Model 10 Electra, first flew in 1936 and was later used in covert reconnaissance missions during World War II.
The second warbird is a Spitfire FR.XIV. This variant, built during the later stages of World War II and designated for fighter reconnaissance, is painted in Indian Air Force markings and features cameras from that era. The Spitfire, originally designed by Reginald J Mitchell, played a significant role in aerial combat history. Its later version, the FR.XIV, was built to enhance performance at low altitudes, and its inclusion in RIAT 2025 connects past innovations to the modern “Eyes in the Skies” theme.
Organizers are already in talks with several air arms about additional aircraft that may join the show. More announcements are expected every Thursday until the event. The progressive unveiling of the aircraft lineup underscores the event’s commitment to a rich display of both living and historic aerial talent.
RIAT 2025 promises to deliver a blend of modern combat performance and historical aviation excellence. The Finnish Hornet’s thrilling display, the Lithuanian Dauphin’s representation of modern SAR capabilities, and the historic warbirds provide a broad spectrum of airborne prowess. Attendees can look forward to a meticulously curated program that appeals to enthusiasts of modern military technology and aviation heritage alike.
