PAF’s JF-17 Thunder Block-III, C-130 Hercules Arrive in UK to Participate in RIAT 2025

A contingent of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), including state-of-the-art JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter aircraft and a C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, has arrived at the Royal Air Force Base Fairford, United Kingdom, to take part in the prestigious Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025.

According to ISPR, PAF’s involvement in one of the world’s largest military airshows highlights its commitment to demonstrating professional excellence, operational capability, and the strength of Pakistan’s indigenous aviation industry.

En route to the UK, PAF’s JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighters successfully conducted Air-to-Air Refuelling operations supported by a PAF IL-78 aerial refuelling tanker. This complex operation showcased the long-range operational capabilities of the PAF and the proficiency of its air and ground crews in extended missions beyond national borders.

The JF-17 Block-III is described as a 4.5 generation multi-role fighter aircraft equipped with EASA Radar and long-range Beyond Visual Range (BVR) capabilities. It is capable of undertaking diverse combat missions that bolster airpower to address contemporary security challenges, thereby enhancing national security.

The ISPR noted heightened enthusiasm in the United Kingdom following the recent Pakistan-India conflict, with aviation enthusiasts and defence observers eagerly anticipating the arrival of the JF-17 Thunder Block-III. The aircraft’s combat-proven capabilities and operational excellence have attracted significant global attention, making its presence at RIAT a major highlight within the aerospace and defence community.

In keeping with RIAT’s tradition of themed artistic displays, the PAF’s C-130 Hercules aircraft has been adorned with a special livery inspired by this year’s theme, “Eyes in the Skies.” The design symbolizes vigilance, situational awareness, and the technological edge maintained by modern air forces to ensure global security. This striking artwork is expected to be a focal point, reflecting PAF’s creativity and operational heritage.

The participation of Pakistan Air Force’s advanced fighter aircraft and artistically painted C-130 Hercules in RIAT-2025 aims to foster mutual understanding, share aviation experiences, and enhance the image of PAF as a modern, technologically advanced air force contributing to global peace and security, as per ISPR.

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