Pakistan is set to make a high-impact appearance at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025, beginning July 18 at RAF Fairford, with a dynamic display of modern airpower that underscores its growing aerospace ambitions and defense industry maturity.
This year, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) will exhibit three frontline platforms:
- Two JF-17C Block-III multirole fighter jets
- One C-130H Hercules tactical transport aircraft
- One IL-78 Midas aerial refueler
JF-17C Block-III Takes Center Stage
Leading the contingent is the JF-17C Block-III, the most technologically advanced version of the JF-17 Thunder. The JF-17 Thunder is a single-engine, multi-role combat aircraft, jointly developed by the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation(CAC). This will be the JF-17’s debut display at RIAT. The Block-III features an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, helmet-mounted display, and a flexible weapons suite capable of delivering precision-guided air-to-air and air-to-surface munitions.
This iteration represents a significant leap in Pakistan’s indigenous fighter program, signaling its growing defense self-reliance and technological advancement.
Strategic Airpower Capabilities on Display
Also participating is the C-130H Hercules, bearing serial number 4479, which has already arrived at RAF Fairford. Operated by No. 6 Squadron from PAF Base Nur Khan, the C-130H is a four-engine military transport plane built by Lockheed. This versatile aircraft has found roles outside of transport, including gunship. This display is a testament to the Pakistan Air Force’s commitment to multi-role combat capabilities.
Completing the lineup is the IL-78 Midas, Pakistan’s mainstay aerial refueling and heavy transport aircraft. Its participation emphasizes the PAF’s extended operational reach and logistical capability, particularly vital for regional deployments and endurance missions.
Strengthening Global Aerospace Engagement
With over 30 nations participating, RIAT is the world’s largest military airshow, attracting thousands of visitors, industry leaders, and defense officials annually. Pakistan’s involvement shows its intent to expand international cooperation, showcase indigenous aerospace innovation, and foster defense diplomacy.
As RIAT 2025 opens, Pakistan’s display is expected to draw attention from aviation experts and defense observers alike, reaffirming the country’s rising profile in the global aerospace community.
Javeria Sajid is an Aerospace Engineering student from NUST with a background in technology and a sharp focus on the global political landscape and defence innovation. She writes to make complex defence technologies understandable, and aspires to bridge journalism, policy, and engineering in her work.
