Let’s set the record straight: Pakistan never planned to take the JF-17 to the Paris Air Show, scheduled to be held from June 16 to 22.
Some reports are claiming that the Paris Air Show did not invite Pakistan to showcase the JF-17 after the Pakistan Air Force shot down Indian Rafales, which are French-made.
French are so mad at Pakistan Air Force for smoking down Rafales, they didn't invite JF-17 Block-lll at this year's Paris Air Show.😂 pic.twitter.com/TVDPdQ0Ylx
— Defence Outpost (@ODA_Foxtrot) June 15, 2025
However, according to our sources, Pakistan had no plans to attend the show, and this decision was made well before the India-Pakistan conflict. The issue was never about France inviting Pakistan — therefore, the claim is false.
It is developed by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group, boasts advanced avionics, including an Active Electronically Scanned Array radar and long-range missile capabilities.
The lightweight, single-engine fighter is designed for air-to-air and air-to-ground operations and is known for its high manoeuvrability at medium and low altitudes.
In 2024, Azerbaijan purchased JF-17 from Pakistan.
Azerbaijan has become the third country to acquire JF-17 fighters from Pakistan after Myanmar and Nigeria. It has long been speculated that Iraq is considering the purchase of this aircraft from Pakistan.
Reports in Azerbaijan media had claimed that the aircraft were acquired under a $1.6 billion deal for unspecified number of jets, armament, and training.
