The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has deployed its advanced JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jets to the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025, landing at RAF Fairford, UK, for the world’s largest military airshow, set for July 18-20.
The PAF’s participation, supported by a C-130 Hercules and an IL-78 tanker for mid-air refueling, highlights its operational prowess and Pakistan’s aviation industry, according to an Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) statement. The C-130 features a special livery aligning with RIAT’s “Eyes in the Skies” theme, symbolizing vigilance.
The JF-17 Block-III, a 4.5-generation multi-role fighter developed by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC), boasts an AESA radar and long-range BVR missiles. Combat-proven in operations like the 2019 India-Pakistan clash and 2024 strikes in Iran, the jet’s appearance follows a May 2025 conflict where PAF claims it destroyed an Indian S-400 system, a claim India denies.
With exports to Myanmar, Nigeria, and a $4.6 billion deal for 40 jets to Azerbaijan, the JF-17 is gaining global traction. Its cost-effectiveness—half the price of an F-16—makes it a standout at RIAT, where two jets from PAF’s 8 Squadron will be on static display.
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