The Duke of Edinburgh joined visitors at the 2003 show

The July show's Defence 2004 exhibition, including air displays by the RAF, has been cancelled.

The Air Force says it is too busy with operational duties, including the ongoing situation in Iraq.

Organisers, who say it is regrettable but not entirely unexpected, are stressing there will still be plenty to see at the show, thanks to extra input from the armed forces.

Defence Minister Ivor Caplin said: "I understand the disappointment many people will feel that Defence 2004 cannot go ahead as planned.

"But the heavy operational commitments our armed forces are facing must clearly take precedence.

"However, we can all still look forward to a varied and exciting range of events at Fairford which will show visitors the Armed Forces at their best."

Last year's show was hailed a huge success with more than 500 aircraft on display.

VIP guests included the Duke of Edinburgh and Prince Feisal of Jordan.