PAF aircraft win awards at world’s largest military airshow in UK
Pakistan Air Force (PAF) aircraft have captured top honours at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025, one of the world’s largest military airshows held from July 18 to 20, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Saturday.
PAF’s historic C‑130H Hercules transport aircraft impressed judges with its presentation and design, earning the highly coveted Concours d’Elegance Trophy.
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
In addition, the advanced JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jet of the PAF won the Spirit of the Meet Trophy, awarded for its striking livery and remarkable performance — including a non-stop flight featuring mid-air refuelling — earning praise for showcasing the best of Pakistan’s air capabilities.
The Pakistan Air Force’s PAC JF-17C Block III has received the top honor, the Spirit of the Meet Trophy, at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025. pic.twitter.com/2PXrqtsH11
— International Defence Analysis (@Defence_IDA) July 19, 2025
The PAF contingent, comprising both C‑130 and JF‑17 aircraft, had landed at RAF Fairford after completing a technically challenging air‑to‑air refuelling operation en route to the UK.
PAF Stuns the World. Pakistan Air Force’s iconic C-130H Hercules has been awarded the prestigious Concours d’Elegance Trophy at the Royal International Air Tattoo 2025!
— Muhammad Haroon Aslam (@AVeteran1956) July 19, 2025
Congratulations. pic.twitter.com/Vy3B1ZCv1M
The annual event, considered one of the world’s largest military airshows, brings together aircraft and crews from around the globe.
PAF C130 wins at RIAT Fairford UK during the power show of fighter jets. Spirit of the meet won by JF-17 Thunder for having the longest non stop flight of nearly 7000KM. pic.twitter.com/fesHiJO3UO
— Murtaza Ali Shah (@MurtazaViews) July 19, 2025
RIAT supports the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust and has been a key fixture on the aviation calendar for over five decades.
Royal Air Force official's comments on the PAF JF-17 Thunder Block III during RIAT 2025.#RIAT2025 pic.twitter.com/YdSOh8ujS8
— International Defence Analysis (@Defence_IDA) July 19, 2025
Reporter Ahmad Mansoor