Dubai | India made a powerful statement at the Dubai Air Show 2025 as the indigenous fighter jet LCA Tejas and the Indian Air Force’s famed Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) dazzled spectators with breathtaking aerial displays. The five-day air show, being held from November 17 to 21 at Dubai’s Al Maktoum Airport, has drawn global attention with India emerging as one of its major attractions.
Tejas vs JF-17: Rivals Face Off Again at Dubai Air Show
One of the key highlights this year is the renewed face-off between India’s LCA Tejas and Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder, a rivalry that has captured international interest. India has set up a large India Pavilion, showcasing its growing defence manufacturing capabilities, from fighter jets to advanced air defence solutions.
Foreign Nations Showing Strong Interest in Tejas
Indian Air Force Vice Chief Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari said foreign countries are showing “significant interest” in LCA Tejas. He added that India’s participation at the Dubai Air Show reflects the growing defence partnership between India and the UAE.
“We have sent Tejas and the Surya Kiran team at the request of the UAE. Our relationship with them is strong at both strategic and service levels,” Tiwari said.
He noted that Tejas has participated in the Dubai Air Show earlier as well, receiving an overwhelming response from the audience and defence delegations. “This year too, visitors will witness Tejas deliver world-class aerobatics,” he added.
Tejas Wows the Crowd with High-G Maneuvers
LCA Tejas impressed spectators with sharp turns, vertical climbs, and high-speed passes, enhanced by colourful smoke winders. The Surya Kiran team added to the excitement with their signature diamond formations, synchronized barrel rolls, and precision flying.
India’s participation goes beyond aerial displays—it is also a showcase of India’s rising defence-industrial ecosystem on a global platform.
India Pavilion Highlights Indigenous Defence Tech
At the India Pavilion, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), DRDO, and several private defence manufacturers displayed cutting-edge systems, including:
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Air defence radars
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Avionics and mission systems
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Drone technologies
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Indigenous weapons and sensors
LCA Tejas remained the centrepiece, drawing enquiries from multiple visiting delegations.
A Global Stage for Defence and Aerospace
Dubai Air Show, held every two years, is one of the world’s premier aerospace events, bringing together global aircraft manufacturers, air forces, defence experts, and industry leaders.
India’s strong presence this year signals its ambition to become a major defence exporter while strengthening its partnerships in the Middle East and beyond.
With Tejas soaring above the Dubai skies and the Surya Kiran team delivering flawless performances, India has once again demonstrated its growing air power and aviation expertise on an international stage.
