PAF Showcases Air Power at RIAT-2025 with JF-17 Block-III and Artistic C-130

The deployment underscores the Pakistan Air Force’s growing reputation as a modern, capable, and technologically advanced force.

By DTD- On Jul 17, 2025

Fairford: A contingent of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has arrived at RAF Fairford to take part in the prestigious Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025, one of the world’s largest and most esteemed military airshows. The PAF contingent includes its latest JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter aircraft and a C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, both of which are set to be major highlights of this year’s event.

The deployment underscores the Pakistan Air Force’s growing reputation as a modern, capable, and technologically advanced force. The participation aims to highlight PAF’s professional excellence, operational readiness, and the strength of Pakistan’s indigenous aviation industry.

Adding to the operational significance of this deployment, PAF’s JF-17 Block-III aircraft successfully executed air-to-air refuelling operations en route to the UK, supported by a PAF IL-78 aerial refuelling tanker. The complex mid-air manoeuvres demonstrated PAF’s long-range strike capabilities and its proficiency in conducting extended international missions.

The JF-17 Thunder Block-III, a 4.5-generation multirole fighter aircraft equipped with EASA radar systems and beyond-visual-range (BVR) missile capabilities, has drawn global interest. With the recent uptick in regional tensions, particularly the Pakistan-India conflict, defence analysts and aviation enthusiasts have shown keen interest in the aircraft’s performance and combat potential.

In keeping with RIAT’s annual tradition of themed artistic displays, the PAF C-130 Hercules has been unveiled in a custom livery reflecting this year’s theme: “Eyes in the Skies.” The design emphasizes vigilance, advanced surveillance, and situational awareness – elements critical to modern air forces. The creative and bold artwork is expected to be a centerpiece at the airshow.

PAF’s presence at RIAT-2025 is not only a platform for showcasing its advanced air assets but also an opportunity for fostering international cooperation, promoting peace, and sharing operational experiences with other leading air forces around the world.

As the airshow unfolds, the JF-17 Thunder Block-III and the uniquely painted C-130 Hercules are anticipated to attract significant attention from the public, defence experts, and aviation media alike.