Bangladesh eyes JF-17 Thunder purchase as air force chief meets PAF chief

Chief of the Air Staff Bangladesh Air Force Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan called on Chief of Air Staff Pakistan Air Force Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu at Air Headquarters in Islamabad on Tuesday, the military’s media wing said.

During the meeting, detailed discussions were also held on potential procurement of JF-17 Thunder aircraft as well among other matters of mutual interest.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the meeting focused on strengthening operational cooperation and institutional synergy, with emphasis on training, capacity building, and collaboration in aerospace advancements.

The visiting air chief was accorded a guard of honour. Air Chief Marshal Sidhu briefed him on PAF’s recent advancements and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh Air Force through a comprehensive training framework from basic to advanced flying and specialised courses across PAF institutions. He also assured fast-tracked delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft, along with a complete training and long-term support ecosystem, the ISPR said.

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The Bangladeshi Air Chief, who is accompanied by a high-level defence delegation, praised PAF’s combat record and expressed interest in benefiting from its operational expertise, seeking assistance in maintenance support for Bangladesh Air Force’s aging fleet and integration of air defence radar systems to enhance air surveillance.

The delegation visited key PAF facilities, including the National ISR & Integrated Air Operations Centre, PAF Cyber Command, and the National Aerospace Science & Technology Park, observing capabilities in ISR, cyber, space, electronic warfare, and unmanned systems.

The visit underscored the strong historical ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh and reflected a shared resolve to deepen defence cooperation and build a long-term strategic partnership.