Pakistan’s pride in aerial combat, the JF-17 Thunder, took center stage at the Dubai Airshow 2025 with an impressive showcase that drew massive attention from global defence delegations — including officials from the Indian Air Force (IAF).
According to images and reports circulating widely on social media, several IAF pilots and officers visited the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) pavilion during the event. Eyewitnesses confirmed that Indian officials examined the JF-17 Thunder up close, asked detailed questions about its performance, and even snapped selfies with the aircraft. These photos have gone viral across multiple online platforms.
When even the enemy is a fan of the Thunder
— The STRATCOM Bureau (@OSPSF) November 20, 2025
Images show several Indian Air Force personnel rushing to take selfies and pictures with the star of the show at the Dubai Air Show 2025, the Pakistan Air Force's JF-17 Thunder Block III fighter jet. pic.twitter.com/FUjK5y1mp4
The JF-17’s appearance at the airshow comes at a time when Pakistan is strengthening its international defence partnerships. Recently, reports indicated that Azerbaijan is set to receive its first batch of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets from Pakistan, with talks underway for potential joint production in the future.
Pakistani air force to Indian air force - Dubai air show.
— Zulfiqar Ahmed (@ZulfiqarAhmed69) November 20, 2025
pic.twitter.com/BGJRbpsxlI
Azerbaijani leadership has also shown strong interest in boosting defence cooperation. President Ilham Aliyev has reportedly pledged a $2 billion investment in Pakistan. According to officials, discussions on this investment are in their final phase, and several agreements are expected to be signed during President Aliyev’s planned visit to Islamabad in April.
