FRONTLINE RAF jets will be in the line-up for the 24th Sunderland International Airshow .

A Tornado and a Typhoon Eurofighter will give displays along with the Red Arrows.

Last year’s free event was missing frontline aitrcraft due to the conflict in Libya.

This year’s will be held over the city’s coastline on Saturday and Sunday July 21 and 22, slightly earlier than usual due to the Olympics.

Sunderland City Council leader Paul Watson said: "This year's airshow line-up is really shaping up with some premier attractions.

"The Red Arrows are already scheduled for appearances on Saturday and Sunday and now we are set to see and hear the Tornado and Typhoon.

"The RAF is taking a lead role in this year's airshow and it will be showcasing the training, excellence and professionalism of its personnel with all these displays."

RAF Typhoon fighters are on alert around the clock, waiting to be scrambled to intercept, unidentified aircraft approaching UK shores.

RAF spokesman, Wing Commander Andrew Pemberton, said: "The Typhoon display team is eagerly looking forward to appearing at this year’s Sunderland International Airshow.

"The Typhoon - which is currently busy preparing for its role providing air security during the Olympic Games - is a hugely impressive fighter aircraft and a real crowd pleaser."

The Tornado is the RAF's primary attack aircraft and boasts 'swing wings' .

The aircraft is more manoeuvrable with wings fully swept forward and can reach supersonic speeds when they are swept back.

Wing Commander Pemberton added: "Tornado celebrates its 30th operational year this year and has a keen following among aviation enthusiasts. We know that it will prove to be a hugely popular attraction at this year’s show and we are delighted that, despite its busy operational commitments, it will be able to attend."

More attractions will be added to the flying programme in the coming months.