British and Pakistani aircrafts paint the sky red, white and blue
To commemorate the 70th anniversary of Pakistan-UK bilateral relations, Pakistan Air Force arranged a spectacular air show at Sea View, Karachi.
The pride of the Pakistan JF-17 Thunder along with internationally acclaimed Red Arrows aerobatics team of Royal Air Force presented a dazzling aerial display for the first time in the history of Pakistan.
Senior officials of the Pakistan Air Force and British Council, including British High Commissioner Thomas Drew, attended the event, along with a multitude of Karachi residents. This is the first time the Red Arrows have performed a full display in Pakistan in 20 years.
Governor Sindh Muhammad Zubar, Chief Minister Sindh Murad Ali Shah, Asifa Bhutto Zardari, Corps Commander Karachi Lt Gen Shahid Baig Mirza, and other political and military officials witnessed the stunning historic event. Air Vice Marshal Haseeb Paracha, Air Officer Commanding, Southern Air Command received all the dignitaries at the venue.
The air show started with the spectacular aerial display by the indigenously manufactured JF-17 Thunder aircraft, which was flown by Wing Commander Yasir Muddassir.
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Moments after the departure of the roaring JF-17 Thunder from the venue, the world renowned aerobatics team of Royal Air Force, Red Arrows, appeared on the horizon.
Speaking at the event, the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team’s Supervisor, Squadron Leader Mike Ling, who is known as Red 10, said:
“The strength of the UK-Pakistan relationship is highlighted by this joint airshow by the Red Arrows and the Pakistan Air Force’s JF-17 Thunder aircraft. The visit by the Red Arrows this year is also historic as it marks 70 years of UK-Pakistan relations.”
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Speaking at the event, the Country Director for the British Council in Pakistan Ms Rosemary Hilhorst OBE said:
“Today is a very special day which represents the excellence of the aerobatic teams, both the Red Arrows and the JF-17 Thunder display teams, and the strong relationship between the UK and Pakistan which has held steadfast these past 70 years.”
The Red Arrows are one of the world’s premier aerobatic display teams. Flying British-built fast-jets, they have performed more than 4,800 times in 57 countries, showcasing the excellence of the Royal Air Force and representing the United Kingdom overseas. The team is carrying out a five-week tour of the Middle East supporting UK interests.
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