The JF-17 Thunder Block-III jets from Pakistan have landed at RAF Fairford in the UK. They are here for this year’s Royal International Air Tattoo — or RIAT for short. It is a huge military airshow that runs from July 18 to 20, and honestly, it draws air forces from all over the world.
Along with the JF-17s, Pakistan also sent a C-130 Hercules. According to the military’s media wing, this international showing is not just about participation — it is about demonstrating what the country’s air force is capable of. From aircraft technology to pilot skill, the message is clear: Pakistan is proud of its aviation industry.
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Pakistan will be deploying two JF-17C Thunder Block III fighter aircraft from the No. 8 ‘Haiders’ Squadron to the United Kingdom this month to participate in the Royal International Air Tattoo Air Show (the largest air show in the world), held at RAF Fairford,… pic.twitter.com/UlZRdE1VJv
What is even more impressive is how they got there. The jets did not just fly straight to the UK — they performed mid-air refuelling on the way, using a PAF IL-78 tanker. Pulling off a long trip like that mid-air refuelling thing is not easy. It takes serious coordination and the PAF made it look almost effortless.
Block-III version of the JF-17 is a 4.5-generation multi-role fighter, equipped with modern radar and long-range missiles. It is fast, flexible, and ready for a range of combat situations exactly what modern air forces rely on.
There is more. Just a few months back, during a sharp conflict with India, the PAF made headlines after shooting down five Indian jets. It was later confirmed that the Kamra-based 15 Squadron led the operation — the largest air engagement in South Asia in over 50 years.
That recent clash has sparked a lot of global interest in the JF-17s. In the UK, especially among military enthusiasts, there is real excitement about seeing these jets up close at RIAT.
All signs point to the JF-17 Thunder being one of the main attractions this year. With its battle-tested reputation and cutting-edge features, the aircraft is not just representing Pakistan — it is making a serious statement on the world stage.
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