1985 Air Force Patch NATO Skytanker 85 RAF Fairford IAT

NATO RAF Skytanker IAT Royal Air Force Patch from the International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford in 1985

This NATO RAF Skytanker 85 patch from IAT is fully embroidered cut edge 120mm by 91mm four and three quarter inches by three and one half inches.

Patch Details

• Event: International Air Tattoo (IAT)
• Theme: Skytanker ’85
• Location: RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire, England
• Date: July 10–25, 1985
• Organisation: Royal Air Force / International Air Tattoo
• Construction: Embroidered on twill with merrowed edge.

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Patch History

This original Skytanker ’85 patch commemorates the International Air Tattoo (IAT) held at RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire, England, in July 1985. During the Cold War, the International Air Tattoo had become one of the world’s premier military aviation events, bringing together aircraft and crews from NATO and allied air forces.

The 1985 show celebrated the vital role of air-to-air refuelling in modern military aviation. The title “Skytanker ’85” reflects the importance of tanker aircraft in extending the range, endurance and operational capability of fighter, bomber and transport aircraft operating throughout Europe.

The artwork features the head-on view of a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker against a globe, symbolising worldwide aerial refuelling operations and international cooperation. Below the aircraft are the initials IAT, representing the International Air Tattoo, together with stylised refuelling booms and formations of aircraft, highlighting the event’s emphasis on multinational air power.

During the 1980s, RAF Fairford was one of the most important United States Air Force and NATO air bases in Europe. The airfield regularly hosted Strategic Air Command bomber deployments, tanker aircraft and major international exercises, making it an ideal venue for the growing International Air Tattoo.

By 1985, the International Air Tattoo had become a showcase for the latest military aircraft from across NATO, attracting participants from Europe and North America. Displays included fighters, bombers, transport aircraft, helicopters and aerial refuelling tankers, demonstrating the close cooperation between allied air forces during the Cold War.

Original Skytanker ’85 patches are highly collectible among RAF Fairford, Royal Air Force, USAF, NATO and International Air Tattoo collectors. They commemorate one of the defining aviation events of the Cold War and the continued importance of aerial refuelling in modern air operations.

This patch dates from 1985.