Pakistan Air Force (PAF) aircraft have captured two owners at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025, one of the world’s largest military airshows held from July 18 to 20th. PAF’s historic C-130A Circuitous Transport Aircraft impressed judges with its presentation and design, earning the highly coveted Conqueror’s Delegates Trophy.
In addition, the advanced JF-17 Thunder Block III fighter jet of the PAF won the Spirit of the Meat Trophy, awarded for its striking delivery and remarkable performance, including a non-stop flight, featuring mid-air refueling, earning praise for showcasing Pakistan’s best air capabilities.
The PAF contingent comprising both C-130 and JF-17 had landed at ARAF Fairford after completing a technically challenging air-to-air refueling operation due to the UK. The annual event, considered one of the largest military airshows, brings together aircraft and crews from around the globe.
“PAF’s participation in RIAT, one of the world’s largest military airshows, underscores Pakistan Air Force’s commitment to showcasing its professional excellence, operational capability and the indigenous strength of its aviation industry,” the ISPR highlighted.
RIAT supports the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust and has been a key fixture on aviation calendars for more than five decades.
“The intricate refuelling operation demonstrated PAF’s long-range operational capabilities and the proficiency of its air and ground crew in conducting extended operations beyond national borders.
“JF-17 Block-III is an EASA Radar and Long Range BVR equipped 4.5 generation multi-role fighter aircraft which is capable of undertaking a wide variety of combat missions, bolstering airpower application in the face of contemporary challenges, thereby strengthening national security,” the statement added.
There has been an increased anticipation for JF-17 jets, following Pakistan’s aggressive assault on the IAF on the night of May 6th and 7th- the aerial dogfight between India and Pakistan, termed as the largest air-to-air engagements in South Asia in more than half a century.
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“There is a palpable sense of enthusiasm across the United Kingdom following the recent Pakistan-India conflict, as aviation enthusiasts and defence observers were eagerly looking forward to the arrival of the Pakistan Air Force’s JF-17 Thunder Block-III,” the statement said.
“The aircraft’s combat-proven capabilities and operational excellence have garnered significant global attention, making its appearance at RIAT a highly anticipated highlight in the aerospace and defence community,” read the statement.