THE world's most advanced jet fighter will make its UK debut at the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford this summer.

The F-22A Raptor, from the US Air Combat Command, represents a new generation of fighter aircraft incorporating state-of-the-art stealth technology, sophisticated weaponry and vectored thrust giving it an unrivalled combination of secrecy, power and manoeuvrability.

With a top speed of 1,140mph (Mach 1.72) and a range of almost 2,000 miles, the F-22A is capable of outperforming any existing fighter aircraft in both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat.

Visitors to the Air Tattoo on July 12-13 will be the first in the UK to witness the precision aerial manoeuvres and unique capabilities of the world's only operational fifth-generation fighter aircraft.

Piloting the aircraft will be Major Paul Max' Moga from the Air Combat Command F-22A Demonstration Team based at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia. Maj Moga, who has more than 250 combat hours, is the first F-22A demo pilot.

Air Tattoo director Tim Prince said the F-22A Raptor represented a giant leap forward in fighter aircraft 1capabilities and would set the standard for aerial combat for years to come.

"I am delighted that the US Air Force has chosen the Air Tattoo to demonstrate its latest fighter. British aircraft enthusiasts have been looking forward to seeing the F-22A for some time and I am delighted that this summer will see their wish come true.

"That the US Air Force has chosen the Air Tattoo to showcase its premier fighter demonstrates how significant our airshow is to military chiefs and aerospace companies across the world."

The Royal International Air Tattoo is staged in support of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust, and this summer's event will include official celebrations to mark the RAF's 90th anniversary.