ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) achieved an extraordinary feat by securing two coveted trophies among the world’s leading air forces at the prestigious Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025, held in the United Kingdom.
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.
On this remarkable achievement, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the PAF contingent, stating that keeping the nation’s flag high has always been the hallmark of the Pakistan Air Force.
“Winning these prestigious awards is a testament to our professionalism, technical expertise, and relentless pursuit of excellence,” the air chief said. He also commended the entire team for showcasing Pakistan’s true potential with pride and dignity.
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 honour bestowed 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 programme, while also highlighting Pakistan’s growing aerospace excellence on the global stage.
Adding to this moment of national pride, the PAF C-130H Hercules, adorned in a striking and artistically crafted special livery reflecting this year’s theme “Eyes in the Skies”, secured the distinguished “Concours d’Elegance” Trophy for the best-maintained and most aesthetically presented aircraft at RIAT-2025.
The 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 that consistently demonstrates excellence in aviation.
PAF’s outstanding performance at RIAT-2025 not only cements its standing among the world’s top air forces but also serves as a source of immense pride for the entire Pakistani nation, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.
Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari congratulated Pakistan Air Force (PAF) on winning awards at the prestigious Royal International Air Tattoo Show. Commending the PAF’s stellar performance, President Asif Ali Zardari stated that the participation and recognition of JF-17 Thunder and C-130 Hercules aircraft at the global aviation event have brought pride to the nation.
“The Pakistan Air Force has once again illuminated the country’s name on the international stage,” the president remarked in a statement issued by the President House on Saturday.
He appreciated technical skills and capabilities of Pakistan Air Force. “Undoubtedly, the Pakistan Air Force ranks among the best in the world,” he added.