PAF to showcase JF-17 Thunder, C-130 Hercules at RIAT 2025

A contingent of the Pakistan Air Force comprising JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jets and the C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, has arrived in the United Kingdom (UK) to participate in the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025 set to commence on July 18, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Thursday.

“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 military’s media wing said.

“Adding to the operational significance of this international deployment, Pakistan Air Force’s JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighters executed successful Air-to-Air Refuelling operations enroute to United Kingdom with the support of a PAF IL-78 aerial refuelling tanker. 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.”

According to the ISPR, 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 wide variety of combat missions bolstering airpower application in the face of contemporary challenges thereby strengthening national security.

“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 military’s media wing added.

It added that JF-17’ 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.

“In line with RIAT’s annual tradition of themed artistic displays, PAF C-130 Hercules has been adorned with an exclusive livery inspired by this year’s theme, Eyes in the Skies. The captivating design symbolizes vigilance, situational awareness and the technological edge maintained by modern air forces in ensuring global security.”

The statement added the striking artwork is expected to be a center of attraction, reflecting Pakistan Air Force’s creativity and operational heritage.

“The participation of PAF’s advanced fighter aircraft and artistically painted C-130 Hercules in RIAT-2025 is aimed at fostering mutual understanding, sharing aviation experiences and enhancing PAF’s image as a modern, technologically advanced air force contributing to global peace and security.”