PAF Contingent Arrives in UK for Royal International Air Tattoo

A Pakistan Air Force (PAF) detachment has landed in the United Kingdom (UK) to participate in the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) this year, according to a statement released on Thursday by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). RIAT is recognized as one of the world’s leading military aviation displays.

The military’s media affairs division reported that the PAF team arrived at Royal Air Force Base Fairford in Gloucestershire, which included advanced JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter aircraft, along with a C-130 Hercules transport aircraft.

The Royal International Air Tattoo 2025 is scheduled to be held from July 18th to 20th.

The statement emphasized, “PAF’s involvement in RIAT, one of the globe’s premier military air events, highlights the Pakistan Air Force’s dedication to demonstrating its professional capabilities, operational readiness, and the homegrown capabilities of its aviation sector.”

Further emphasizing the operational importance of this overseas deployment, the Pakistan Air Force’s JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighters successfully carried out aerial refueling operations en route to the United Kingdom, supported by a PAF IL-78 aerial refueling tanker, it noted.

“This complex refueling exercise showcased PAF’s capacity for long-range operations and the competence of its air and ground personnel in executing extended missions across international boundaries.”

The ISPR statement also mentioned, “The JF-17 Block-III is a 4.5 generation multi-role fighter equipped with an EASA Radar and Long Range BVR, capable of conducting a wide array of combat missions, enhancing airpower capabilities to meet current challenges, thereby reinforcing national security.”

The statement further added, “There’s a clear sense of anticipation throughout the UK following the recent Pakistan-India situation, as aviation enthusiasts and defense analysts are keenly awaiting the arrival of the Pakistan Air Force’s JF-17 Thunder Block-III.”

The aircraft’s combat-tested abilities and superb operational performance have gained considerable international recognition, making its presence at RIAT a highly anticipated event for those in the aerospace and defense fields, the press release concluded.