Pakistan Air Force chief holds strategic talks at Dubai Airshow as JF-17 Thunder shines

DUBAI (Dunya News) – Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, held multiple strategic engagements with military leaders from friendly nations during the Dubai Airshow 2025.

His discussions with Lieutenant General Pilot Ibrahim Nasser Al-Alawi, Undersecretary of Defence UAE, and Major General Rashid Mohammed Al-Shamsi, Commander UAE Air Force & Air Defence, focused on strengthening defence cooperation and showcasing Pakistan’s expanding aerospace capabilities. The Pakistan Air Force contingent, featuring the advanced JF-17 Thunder Block-III and the Super Mushshak trainer aircraft, marked a significant presence at the event.

Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, NI (M), HJ, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, held a series of high-level engagements with Air Chiefs from friendly countries on the sidelines of the Dubai Airshow 2025. During the visit, Chief of the Air Staff also held… pic.twitter.com/HuypaG1FI2

— PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) November 20, 2025

The discussions centred on fostering collaboration in advanced military training, enhancing coordination mechanisms and exploring joint development in emerging aerospace technologies. UAE military officials commended Pakistan’s growing indigenous aviation capabilities and modernisation efforts, reaffirming mutual commitment to developing forward-looking partnerships, joint exercises and enhanced professional exchanges.

PAF at Dubai Airshow 2025

The arrival of the JF-17 Thunder Block-III generated substantial attention among defence analysts, aviation experts and visitors. Showcased as one of the major highlights of the Dubai Airshow, the aircraft stood out for its cutting-edge technology, operational versatility and strong combat performance. Its advanced avionics, integrated electronic warfare systems and effective multirole capabilities reinforced its image as a highly capable and cost-effective platform suitable for modern air forces.

The JF-17 Thunder Block-III’s proven operational performance, including its effectiveness in Marka-e-Haq, further elevated international interest. Its growing reputation as an indigenous success story underscored Pakistan’s advancement in aviation manufacturing and defence technology.

Multiple international defence delegations engaged with Pakistan Air Force officials to explore potential collaboration, training opportunities and procurement prospects. Several countries expressed formal interest in evaluating the JF-17 Thunder for future acquisition, citing its affordability, upgrades and ability to be customised to operational requirements.

In a key development at the show, Pakistan signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a friendly country for the procurement of the JF-17 Thunder. The agreement highlighted expanding international confidence in Pakistan’s aerospace industry and marked a notable milestone in defence cooperation.

The Super Mushshak trainer aircraft also attracted attention for its export track record and role in basic flight training. Its wide adoption by several air forces around the world demonstrated Pakistan’s growing capability in producing both combat and training platforms.