Pakistan signed a memorandum of understanding with a “friendly country” for the procurement of its JF‑17 Thunder Block‑III fighter jet during the Dubai Airshow 2025, the Inter‑Services Public Relations (ISPR) said Thursday.
The MoU comes as the JF‑17 Block‑III emerged as a key highlight of the biennial event at Al Maktoum International Airport, attracting defence analysts, aviation experts and visiting delegations. The aircraft, jointly developed by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC), Kamra, and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporation (CAC), features all‑weather, day‑night, multirole capability and has proven operational performance in the Marka-e-Haq conflict, according to the ISPR.
Several other countries expressed interest in the fighter, reflecting growing international confidence in Pakistan’s indigenous defence aviation sector. The Pakistan Air Force contingent also showcased its Super Mushshak trainer aircraft.
PAF Chief Air Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu held high-level discussions with UAE military officials, including Lieutenant General Pilot Ibrahim Nasser Al-Alawi, Undersecretary of Defence, and Major General Rashid Mohammed Al-Shamsi, Commander UAE Air Force and Air Defence.
The talks focused on advanced training, emerging aerospace technologies, and strengthening operational coordination. The UAE leadership lauded PAF modernisation efforts and pledged support for closer collaboration through joint exercises, professional exchanges and strategic partnerships, the ISPR added.
The Dubai Airshow runs from November 17 to 21 and has emerged as a platform for Pakistan to highlight its expanding defence capabilities and industrial partnerships.
