Pakistani aircraft win two awards at Royal International Air Tattoo airshow

Pakistan has won big at this year’s Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) airshow, taking place in the United Kingdom. Out of more than 220 aircraft from 27 various nations, Pakistan’s aircraft were granted two awards.

Here’s what you need to know about the achievement.

Pakistan Air Force (PAF) showcased two of their flagship aircrafts at this year’s airshow.

The first aircraft is the JF-17 Thunder Block-III, which was awarded the “Spirit of the Meet” Trophy. The RIAT organisation noted that this trophy was awarded to the PAF, “in recognition of their efforts deploying a pair of indigenous fighter aircraft on a 4,000-mile journey, alongside a tanker and specially painted transport aircraft, and presenting them in a colourful and engaging static display,” according to a statement issued regarding the winning participants.

The second winning aircraft is the C-130H Hercules. This aircraft was awarded the RUAG Trophy, which the organisation states is presented to the overall winner of the Concours d’Elegance.

Pakistan Army’s Inter-Services Public Relations issued a statement acknowledging the win and sharing the remarks of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, the Chief of the Air Staff, who “extended his heartfelt congratulations to PAF contingent.”

“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,” the statement read.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also noted the achievement, stating, “By the grace of Allah, the vision of the leadership of the Pakistan Air Force and the professional skills of the pilots and technicians are making Pakistan’s name shine all over the world,” as reported by the Associated Press of Pakistan.

This is the first time in seven years that Pakistan has taken home awards at RIAT. Previously, the country has won in 2018, 2016, and 2006.

The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) is the world’s largest international military airshow that occurs annually in the United Kingdom. Specifically, the showcasing takes place at the Royal Air Force Base Fairford in Gloucestershire, England.

The airshow is a three-day event that boasts thousands of visitors and has been running for over 50 years. The very first RIAT show took place in Essex in 1971.

The event also directly supports the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust (RAFCT) that is primarily dedicated to encouraging young people’s interest and involvement in the aviation, space, and technology spheres.

This year’s airshow took place from July 18 through July 20 and had over 175,000 attendees. Paul Atherton, Chief Executive Officer for Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises, reflected on the completion of the show stating, “We were delighted to welcome so many people to RAF Fairford for this year’s Royal International Air Tattoo.”