The swimwear is part of the RAF Collection's Spring range. The new range coincides with the RAF's 90th anniversary on April 1. The RAF hopes sales of the bikini, which features diamante roundels, will soar. A spokeswoman for the RAF Collection said: "The collection will enable the next generation to own a piece of one of the United Kingdom's most prestigious brands." In RAF colours, the bikini top retails at £20, while the bottoms are £15. Sizes are available in 8 to 18.

The RAF Collection website, which sells the bikini online, describes it as a "show-stopping bikini which will make anyone's head turn, yet which is distinctly tasteful and flattering to the figure".Some of the money raised by the licensing of the collection will support the RAF free museums, helping to preserve the history of the RAF.

Group Captain Andy Turner, communications director of the RAF, said the merchandising campaign helps promote understanding and awareness. "By associating our brand marks, including the RAF logo, on high-end leisure products, we build up our image around the UK and globally and, just as importantly, bring us to the attention of young people who are the next generation of RAF personnel," he said.

Yes, that'll bring them in, just don't mention being shot down over Tikrit...