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Dress rehearsal for this year's Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

The Royal Air Force is the lead service at this year's Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and showcased its exceptional talent and military precision at a final dress rehearsal yesterday, 3 August. 

The Princess Royal meeting military personnel

Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, was in attendance and treated to an exclusive preview of the breathtaking musical and cultural displays presented by over 800 performers from across the globe.

RAF band performing outside Edinburgh Castle at night with conductor in the foreground

During the rehearsal at Redford Barracks, the RAF's King's Colour Squadron demonstrated their drill and ceremonial expertise with RAF Pipes and Drums also providing an outstanding performance.

RAF pipes and drums performing at night with highland dancers

The Tattoo has become a cherished tradition since it was established in 1950, drawing thousands of spectators annually to witness the grandeur of the performances against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. This year, the event will run from 4 August to 26 August, and include flypasts from the Red Arrows, Typhoons from RAF Lossiemouth and an A400M from RAF Brize Norton.

Full arena outside Edinburgh Castle at night with fireworks display in background

The Tattoo has always been an opportunity to celebrate international cooperation, and this year is no different. The RAF will proudly share the stage with esteemed international military bands and drill teams, fostering camaraderie and goodwill amongst nations. 

Fire breathing performer during dress rehearsal at night

Notable groups such as His Majesty the King's Guard Band and Drill Team of Norway, The United States Air Force Band, Swiss Armed Forces Central Band, and Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Steel Orchestra all participated in the rehearsal and will display their incredible talents alongside the RAF in the coming weeks.