At the Dubai Airshow 2025, India’s defense capabilities were prominently showcased, highlighted by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) scale model of the Tejas Mk2 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), which garnered significant global interest for its advanced design and cost-effectiveness compared to Western and Russian alternatives. The event also featured the participation of 15 iDEX-backed startups, including Sagar Defence, which won a USD 5,000 prize for its AI-powered “Genesis” autonomous systems concept, underscoring India’s burgeoning defense innovation ecosystem. The Tejas Mk2’s engagement drew attention from military officials worldwide, particularly from Southeast Asia and the Middle East, seeking to explore potential procurement and co-development opportunities, reflecting a shift in defense partnerships towards indigenous capabilities. The successful demonstrations of both the Tejas fighter and the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team reinforced India’s strategic self-reliance and commitment to defense exports, showcasing the country’s evolution from a technology importer to a credible aerospace manufacturer on the global stage, while simultaneously enhancing bilateral ties with nations such as the UAE.