The collection, which goes on general sale on July 30, features eight aircraft that helped define successive generations of Royal Air Force capability, beginning with the Gloster Meteor F1, Britain’s first operational jet fighter, and culminating in the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II, the aircraft at the centre of the UK’s modern air power strategy.
Between those two milestones sit several of Britain’s most recognisable military aircraft, including the Avro Vulcan B2, Gloster Javelin FAW9, Hawker Siddeley Hawk T1, Hawker Siddeley Buccaneer S2B, de Havilland Vampire FB5 and the Panavia Tornado GR4.
Together, they reflect more than seven decades of technological innovation and operational service across conflicts ranging from the closing stages of the Second World War to the Falklands campaign, the Gulf War, Afghanistan and Iraq.
The issue also coincides with several notable anniversaries in British aviation. This year marks 80 years since the de Havilland Vampire entered service, 70 years for both the Gloster Javelin and Avro Vulcan, and 50 years since the Hawk began its distinguished RAF career as the UK’s principal fast-jet trainer.
Ready for take-off? ✈️
Our Military Jet Aircraft Stamps & Collectibles are cleared for launch, celebrating the power, precision and history of British jet aviation.
Order yours today: https://t.co/bjxj4z7WUI pic.twitter.com/7eh0eiCtio
— Royal Mail (@RoyalMail) July 23, 2026
Royal Mail has also released a four-stamp miniature sheet commemorating the 30th anniversary of the death of Sir Frank Whittle, whose pioneering work on the jet engine transformed both military and civilian aviation.
Ian Whittle, Sir Frank’s son, described the collection as a fitting tribute to Britain’s engineering legacy and the generations of designers, engineers and aircrew who helped establish the country as a global leader in aerospace innovation.
At a time when Britain is once again placing renewed emphasis on defence and advanced military technology, the collection serves as both a celebration of historic achievement and a reminder of the enduring strategic importance of air power in an increasingly uncertain world.
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