DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES -- The Dubai Airshow 2025 roared to life this week as American air power took a leading role, captivating attendees with aerial demonstrations featuring the venerable B-52 Stratofortress, the cutting-edge F-35 Lightning II, the versatile F-16 Fighting Falcon and the capable U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon. The displays highlighted the United States’ commitment to regional security and underscored the unmatched capabilities of American air power.
The American presence in the skies of Dubai started with the B-52, a long-range strike platform, demonstrating its enduring relevance. The B-52's longevity can be linked to its effectiveness of projecting global power. The bomber, affectionately known as the BUFF among its fans, is assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, on temporary assignment to the NATO Bomber Task Force operating from Morón Air Base, Spain.
This temporary bomber rotation is designed to advance joint warfighting capability, strengthen cooperation, and improve how U.S. and allied forces operate together in high-threat environments. Its presence served as a powerful reminder of America's unwavering commitment to its allies and its ability to deter potential adversaries.
In striking contrast, crowds were wowed by the speed and ear-splitting fury of the F-35 Lightning II. This fifth-generation fighter is the current pinnacle of combat aviation technology and utilized by the United States Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy. In addition, other allies field this fighter in their inventories. The fighter was operated by the F-35 demonstration team from the 388th Fighter Wing at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, specially trained to showcase the maximum performance of this aircraft. While the F-35 is a low-observable aircraft to radar, and other methods of detection, it was the star performer for the first day of the airshow.
In a similar manner, the F-16 demonstration team from the 20th Fighter Wing at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, brought out a familiar sight to fans of highly maneuverable fighter aircraft. More commonly known as the Viper, demonstration pilot Maj. Taylor “FEMA” Hiester left observers in awe as he maneuvered the aircraft in high G turns and spent nearly the entire flight in full afterburner. The demonstration wasn’t for cheap thrills, as the F-16 production line is still active and a popular platform in foreign military sales. In fact, eight partners within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility operate the F-16 making for a common understanding and capability among these nations.
Capping the American demonstration was the U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon; this maritime patrol aircraft is based off the Boeing 737 airliner. While it may bear a resemblance to the popular people-hauler, inside, it is equipped to detect, track, and if required, strike surface and subsurface targets at sea. The Poseidon is packed with surveillance equipment and sonobuoys, and features internal and external weapons pylons. While not obvious during the demonstration, the Poseidon’s endurance enables long patrols in order to provide a watchful eye over the water. It is a popular patrol aircraft and operated by eight allied nations with the common goal of free and open access to the seas.
While the displays of Airmanship wowed the crowds in Dubai, there was a larger message behind the event.
“Our presence at Dubai is more than just an air show,” said Lt. Gen. Derek France, 9th Air Force (Air Forces Central) commander. “We are showcasing our professionalism, training and lethality on a world stage in plain view. The message we are sending is clear, peace through strength. We along with our partners are committed to regional stability, and we are equipped, trained and ready to sustain stability and reinforce security.”