The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) earned international acclaim at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025, held from July 18 to 20 at RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom, by securing two prestigious awards.
The JF-17 Thunder Block III, an advanced multi-role fighter jointly developed with China, received the “Spirit of the Meet” Trophy. It was recognized for its vibrant livery and its non-stop journey from Pakistan to the UK, made possible by mid-air refueling with a PAF IL-78 aerial tanker.
Meanwhile, the C-130H Hercules transport aircraft, displayed in a custom livery celebrating Pakistan’s aviation heritage, was awarded the “Concours d’Elegance” Trophy for best overall presentation.
The aircraft and crew represented the No. 8 “Haiders” Squadron, showcasing the PAF’s operational strength and technical finesse. The JF-17’s presence at RIAT followed its recent spotlight in a 2025 Pakistan-India aerial engagement, where its performance once again highlighted its combat-proven capabilities.
With over 200 aircraft from 30 countries, RIAT remains the world’s largest military airshow, and the PAF’s double victory is a standout achievement. Aviation enthusiasts and defense analysts across social media celebrated the wins, praising the PAF’s growing presence in the global aerospace arena.
These awards are not just symbolic — they underscore Pakistan’s emerging aerospace capabilities, homegrown technological advancements, and the professionalism of its air and ground crews. The recognition solidifies Pakistan’s status as a serious and evolving player in the global defense and aviation landscape.Tools
ChatGP
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 19th, 2025
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