India made a spirited and confident entry at the Dubai Airshow 2025 on November 17, bringing with it not just aircraft and technology, but a clear message that the country’s defence and aerospace ambitions have taken flight, and it intends to be seen and heard on the global stage.
The India Pavilion, inaugurated by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, quickly became one of the most animated corners of the exhibition. Unlike earlier years, when India’s presence felt modest, this year’s pavilion reflects a country that is more assured of its capabilities. Models of fighter jets, engines, drones, and defence electronics sit alongside interactive displays and discussions led by both senior officials and young engineers.
Major players like HAL, DRDO, BrahMos Aerospace, Tech Mahindra, and several MSMEs and start-ups are sharing space, a rare but refreshing blend that shows how India’s defence ecosystem is slowly becoming more collaborative.
Beyond the exhibition floor, India’s engagement carried a strong diplomatic undertone. Seth met UAE Minister of State for Defence Mohammed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, with both sides reaffirming a shared goal: strengthen defence ties not just through buying and selling, but through co-creation, joint development, and future-ready technology partnerships. The minister also led a multinational industry roundtable, where companies from India, the UAE, Europe, and the Americas explored cooperative opportunities.
But the energy of the day truly shifted when the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team streaked into Al Maktoum International Airport. Their arrival in the iconic nine-aircraft formation generated immediate buzz. For many visitors unfamiliar with India’s air display heritage, the bright red Hawk jets brought a sense of precision and artistry that stood out from the usual military routines.
Joining them were the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, flown in by the Indian Air Force. For India, Tejas is a symbol of self-reliance and a product that the country hopes will find more international takers. IAF Vice Chief Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari said interest from foreign air forces is growing, especially as India prepares to induct nearly 200 Tejas aircraft.
With more than 100 air forces and thousands of aerospace professionals gathering in Dubai, India’s showcase feels timely. This year, the country is partcipating and presenting itself as a rising aerospace nation, ready to innovate, collaborate, and compete on the world stage.
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