Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu led a focused programme of high-level engagements at the Dubai Airshow 2025, pursuing enhanced military-to-military cooperation, expanded joint training and deeper aerospace collaboration under a clear agenda of PAF outreach. Discussions with visiting air chiefs and defence leaders emphasised future avenues in airpower development and professional exchanges.
During the visit the Air Chief held substantive talks 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, to review the evolving geo-strategic environment and reaffirm commitments to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation. Conversations centred on advanced training, operational coordination and collaboration in emerging aerospace technologies, with UAE leadership noting Pakistan Air Force’s modernisation and expanding indigenous capabilities.
The Pakistan Air Force contingent showcased the advanced JF-17 Thunder Block-III and the acclaimed Super Mushshak trainer, underlining national progress in indigenous aviation. The JF-17 Block-III attracted strong international interest for its avionics, weapons integration and multirole performance, and several delegations expressed procurement interest. In a notable step forward an MoU was signed with a friendly partner for JF-17 procurement, marking a concrete outcome of PAF outreach and defence industrial cooperation.
These strategic engagements and platform displays reinforced Pakistan Air Force’s commitment to professional excellence and technological advancement. The programme at Dubai Airshow 2025 underscored PAF outreach as a driver for expanded training initiatives, joint exercises and enduring defence partnerships that will support operational readiness and future aerospace collaboration.
