A specially marked Pakistan Air Force C-130H Hercules participated at the UK’s Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) during mid-July.
The veteran aircraft painted in a colour scheme to celebrate the 75th anniversary of 6. Squadron was one of the show’s biggest attractions.
Regarded as the largest event of its kind in the world, RIAT attracted over 200 aircraft from all corners of the globe. The theme of this year’s show was ‘International Centenary celebrations of the Royal Air Force’. So when the Hercules won the runners-up trophy for the Concours’ D’Elegance for the best looking aircraft, the PAF was justifiably proud. It comes two years after another Hercules won the trophy in 2016, with its attractive-looking Operation Zarb-e-Azb themed scheme.
The operation was launched in June 2014 by joint Pakistan Armed Forces against militia groups, and the markings highlighted the humanitarian and the military effort in the campaign.
In July 2006, 6. Sqn’s L382B Hercules won three trophies at RIAT, Trophy For Best Theme markings under the heading Rapid Global Effect, Trophy for Spirit of the Meet befitting the best overall performance on the ground and Trophy For Best Livery for the best decorated aircraft.
by Alan Warnes
