Felicitation pour in as PAF bags top honours at RIAT 2025

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have congratulated the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) for clinching two major trophies at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) in the United Kingdom

According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), PAF achieved an extraordinary feat by securing two coveted trophies among the world’s leading air forces at the world-renowned RIAT-2025.

“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,” the military’s media wing said in a statement.

On this remarkable achievement, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu extended his heartfelt congratulations to PAF contingent stating that keeping the nation’s flag high has always been the hallmark of Pakistan Air Force.

“Winning these prestigious awards is a testament to our professionalism, technical expertise and relentless pursuit of excellence.”

He also commended the entire team for showcasing Pakistan’s true potential with pride and dignity.

JF-17 Thunder Block-III

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 honor conferred upon the aircraft that best embodies the ethos, spirit and excitement of RIAT.

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The award signifies the technological brilliance and operational capability of the JF-17 program, while also showcasing Pakistan’s growing aerospace excellence on global stage.

PAF C-130H Hercules

Adding to this moment of national pride, PAF C-130H Hercules, adorned in a striking and artistically crafted special livery reflecting this year’s theme of Eyes in the Skies, secured the distinguished “Concours d’Elegance” Trophy for the best-maintained and most aesthetically presented aircraft at RIAT-2025.

“Pakistan Air Force has a rich history of success at RIAT, having previously won multiple honors in 2006, 2016 and 2018, further reinforcing its reputation as a world-class air arm consistently demonstrating excellence in aviation. PAF’s outstanding performance at RIAT-2025 not only cements its standing among leading global air forces but also serves as a source of immense pride for the entire Pakistani nation.”