Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder fighter jet draws crowd at Dubai Airshow 2025

Dubai: Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder jet attracted consistent attention at the Dubai Airshow 2025, where visitors gathered at both the flying and static displays to learn more about the multirole fighter and its latest Block-III variant.

Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) Kamra is participating in this year’s event, presenting its aviation and aerospace portfolio, including the JF-17 program, indigenous avionics development, and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services.

As part of Pakistan’s presence, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has deployed two JF-17 Block-III aircraft including one featured in the aerobatic flying display, while the second stood in the static area alongside a selection of associated weapons.

Flying display

During the aerobatic segment, the JF-17 performed precision manoeuvres that drew the attention of aviation enthusiasts and professionals. Many later visited the static display to take photographs and engage with PAF personnel for technical details. Visitors described the routine as well-executed, noting the smooth coordination of the PAF aircrew.

At the static area, PAF officials briefed attendees on the Block-III’s avionics suite, multirole capabilities, sensors and weapons options.

The presence of the full weapons set also added to the interest, enabling visitors to examine the aircraft’s configuration more closely.

Largest event

The Dubai Airshow 2025 features more than 1,500 exhibitors, 148,000 trade visitors, 490 delegations from 115 countries, and over 200 aircraft across flying and static displays — making it the largest edition in the event’s history.

The five-day event which opened on Monday, will continue with daily flight routines, defence announcements and commercial aviation showcases, with the JF-17 remaining a consistent point of interest for visitors.

The 2025 edition hosts over 1,500 exhibitors including 440 newcomers and welcomes 148,000 trade visitors and 490 military and civil delegations from 115 countries. With more than 200 commercial, military, private and UAV platforms on display, this year marks the airshow’s largest-ever line-up.