This arrangement does not seems to be for flying, and only for validation of concept (FLIR-ed MI-17) on ground. Main gimble is not attached to helo structure, rather it seems that some internal module of FLIR is attached to helo structure, onwhich whole load of stationary/rotary parts hinges. secondly the way power/data cable is attached from FLIR to Helo itself, It has a great sag, and due to rotorwash, may flutter violently and snap lose from both or one end. Now you can also notice some sensitive parts underneath the same area, i.e. anti collision light, landing light, two pitot tubes and small white coloured avionivs antenna. The lose cable may aslo break lower glass panels. i am sure PAF engineers are only testing it for ground checks, and may not risk it to take it to air, the loose cable should be ducted under some cover flushed with fuseladge, so that no unnecessary aerodynamic drag is caused to Mi-17.
BTW, its Star Safire II or III?