ISLAMABAD: Aircraft of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) have won two prestigious awards at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025, one of the world’s largest military airshows, held at RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom from July 18 to 20.
The PAF’s advanced JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jet received the “Spirit of the Meet Trophy” for its striking livery and a non-stop transcontinental journey that included successful mid-air refuelling operations.
The Pakistan Air Force JF-17C Block III was awarded the prestigious 'Spirit of the Meet Trophy' at the #RIAT2025 for its striking livery and the incredible journey from Pakistan with non-stop air to air refuelling (AAR).@DGPR_PAF @airtattoo pic.twitter.com/x4jTCpBjZi
— PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) July 19, 2025
“PAF’s state of the art JF-17 Thunder Block-III, making its maiden appearance at this prestigious airshow, was awarded the “Spirit of the Meet” Trophy, a rare honor conferred upon the aircraft that best embodies the ethos, spirit and excitement of RIAT. The award signifies the technological brilliance and operational capability of the JF-17 program, while also showcasing Pakistan’s growing aerospace excellence on global stage,” the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated in a press release.
The JF-17C Block III represents Pakistan’s advanced defence technology. This success has honoured Pakistan’s aviation sector on an international level.
Meanwhile, the C-130H Hercules transport aircraft, another cornerstone of the PAF fleet, was awarded the “Concours d’Elegance Trophy”, a recognition of its impressive technical presentation and flight performance, PTV reported.
“PAF C-130H Hercules, adorned in a striking and artistically crafted special livery reflecting this year’s theme of Eyes in the Skies, secured the distinguished “Concours d’Elegance” Trophy for the best-maintained and most aesthetically presented aircraft at RIAT-2025,” ISPR stated.
These awards were given in recognition of the aircrafts’ excellent flying and technical skills.
Pakistan Air Force C-130H Hercules has been awarded the prestigious ”Concours d’Elegance Trophy” at the Royal International Air Tattoo 2025!
🇵🇰@airtattoo @DGPR_PAF #RIAT2025 pic.twitter.com/msifVoZ5Lr— PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) July 19, 2025
“During the Air Chiefs’ Conference at RIAT-2025, PAF’s professional excellence and the exquisite paint schemes of its aircraft were widely appreciated by global air force leaders,” the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated in a press release.
On this remarkable achievement, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, extended his heartfelt congratulations to PAF contingent stating that keeping the nation’s flag high has always been the hallmark of Pakistan Air Force, according to ISPR.
“Winning these prestigious awards is a testament to our professionalism, technical expertise and relentless pursuit of excellence.” He also commended the entire team for showcasing Pakistan’s true potential with pride and dignity.
Pakistan Air Force has a rich history of success at RIAT, having previously won multiple honours in 2006, 2016 and 2018, further reinforcing its reputation as a world-class air arm consistently demonstrating excellence in aviation.
PAF’s outstanding performance at RIAT-2025 not only cements its standing among leading global air forces but also serves as a source of immense pride for the entire Pakistani nation, ISPR stated.
The PAF contingent arrived at RAF Fairford on 18 July, comprising both the JF-17 Block-III and the C-130H Hercules. The deployment was enabled by a successful aerial refuelling mission carried out with the support of a PAF IL-78 tanker, according to ISPR.
The Royal International Air Tattoo, organised annually in support of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust, draws military aviation teams from around the globe and is widely regarded as one of the most significant events on the global aerospace calendar.
The JF-17 Thunder Block-III, developed jointly by Pakistan and China, has been at the forefront of PAF’s modernisation efforts.
RIAT 2025 Pakistan Airforce C-130J has won the competition of Air Tattoo. If looks could kill, this baby has it all. pic.twitter.com/3suoyBmBYb
— Irves (@Irves_Watch) July 18, 2025
The aircraft gained international attention for its performance during the Pakistan-India aerial engagement in May 2025, which saw the aircraft play a key role in a large-scale air-to-air operation, one of the most significant in South Asia in over five decades.
“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,” ISPR 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.”
