French Navy Atlantique Touchdown Signals Thrilling RIAT 2025 Update
The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) has dropped this week’s aircraft update, and it’s a stunner that’s got the aviation world buzzing. Kicking things off with a flourish, the French Navy’s Atlantique maritime patrol aircraft is set to steal the spotlight with a rare flying display, a treat reserved for Saturday and Sunday at the 2025 show. This latest reveal weaves perfectly into RIAT’s ‘Eyes in the Skies’ theme, bringing together an eclectic mix of international air power, from cutting-edge surveillance platforms to search and rescue legends, all converging on RAF Fairford in July.
Hot on the heels of last week’s news, this Thursday’s announcement unveils a lineup that promises something special for every airshow aficionado. Alongside the Atlantique’s aerial showcase, attendees can expect a feast of static displays featuring rare birds like the Grob 520 Ergrett, the Royal Canadian Air Force’s twilight-bound CP-140M Aurora, and the long-awaited return of the Guardia Costiera after 20 years. With each aircraft adding its own flavour to the event, RIAT 2025 is shaping up to be a global celebration of wings and innovation.
French Navy Bréguet Atlantique 2 / Royal International Air Tattoo 2018
The French Navy’s Atlantique is undoubtedly the headliner of this week’s update. Hailing from Flottille 23F at BAN Lann-Bihoué, this maritime patrol workhorse is a rare sight at airshows outside of France. Renowned for its ability to hunt submarines, monitor shipping lanes, and support naval operations with its advanced sensor suite, the Atlantique brings a dynamic presence to the flying display. “We’re excited to confirm what will be one of the highlights of the flying display programme courtesy of the French Navy,” the RIAT team enthused in their update, and it’s easy to see why. Its weekend performances will give crowds a front-row seat to its impressive capabilities, a testament to the airshow’s knack for securing top-tier international acts.
Not to be outdone, the static park is getting a hefty dose of intrigue with the arrival of the Grob 520 Ergrett. This German-engineered marvel, brought to the show by Grob Aircraft SE, is one of the largest fully composite manned aircraft ever built. Its elongated, high-aspect-ratio wings scream high-altitude surveillance, drawing comparisons to the iconic U-2 spy plane. Parked alongside its stablemate, the Grob 120TP, this duo will anchor a prime spot near the showground’s center, offering a close-up look at cutting-edge design all three days. It’s a rare chance to see the Ergrett up close, and Grob’s commitment to RIAT is a win for anyone fascinated by the tech that keeps eyes on the skies.
Across the Atlantic, the Royal Canadian Air Force is rolling in with a bittersweet contribution. The CP-140M Aurora, a veteran of maritime patrol and reconnaissance, is nearing the end of its service life, soon to be replaced by the P-8 Poseidon. “This will likely be the last visit of an Aurora to RIAT as they approach their retirement from Canadian service,” the update notes, lending a poignant edge to its static display appearance. Joining it is the CC-130J Hercules, a tactical airlift powerhouse that’s no stranger to heavy lifting. Together, they showcase Canada’s enduring presence at RIAT, blending nostalgia with operational muscle.
Meanwhile, the static lineup gets an Italian flair with the Guardia Costiera’s ATR 42, marking its first RIAT appearance in two decades. This coastal guardian is a versatile platform, adept at maritime surveillance and emergency response, and its return has the RIAT crew buzzing. “Fantastica!” they exclaimed, and the sentiment is spot-on. Nearby, His Majesty’s Coastguard will roll out their Sikorsky S-92, a search and rescue stalwart that’s saved countless lives over water and land. This helicopter will headline a themed area dedicated to search and rescue helicopters, a display zone that’ll be partially visible on Friday but fully open for Saturday and Sunday. It’s a fitting nod to the unsung heroes of the skies, and a chance for visitors to see these lifesavers up close.
Closer to home, the Royal Air Force is bringing some fresh metal to the party. The Envoy IV, operated by 32 Squadron out of RAF Northolt, is making its RIAT debut on static display. As one of the RAF’s newest additions, this sleek aircraft hints at the future of British military aviation, offering a glimpse of what’s to come from one of the world’s most storied air forces. Its presence rounds out a diverse lineup that spans continents and missions, all tied together under the ‘Eyes in the Skies’ banner.
Behind the scenes, the RIAT machine is humming. The Air Operations office is in high gear, fresh off this week’s ATC Training Day, a key step in prepping for the July spectacle. With more aircraft announcements slated for next Thursday, the momentum is building fast. This week’s update is a tantalizing taste of what’s ahead, blending rare displays, international cooperation, and a dash of aviation history. For those counting down to RIAT 2025, the French Navy Atlantique’s touchdown in the flying program is just the beginning—expect the skies over Fairford to light up with even more surprises as the show draws near.
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