ISLAMABAD: Senior air force commanders from Pakistan and Bangladesh met in Islamabad on Tuesday to review defence cooperation, including discussions on the possible acquisition of JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
Bangladesh Air Force Chief Air Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan paid an official visit to Pakistan Air Force Headquarters, where he was received by PAF Chief Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu. The visiting dignitary was presented with a ceremonial guard of honour upon arrival.
The ISPR stated that extensive talks were held on Bangladesh’s potential procurement of the JF-17 Thunder multirole combat aircraft. Both sides also exchanged views on enhancing bilateral collaboration in operational readiness, training programmes, and institutional coordination.
During the meeting, the Pakistan Air Force chief highlighted recent developments and technological progress achieved by the PAF. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s willingness to assist the Bangladesh Air Force through a structured training framework, ranging from basic flying instruction to advanced and specialised aviation courses offered at PAF training institutions.
The Pakistani air chief further assured the visiting delegation of expedited delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft, along with comprehensive training support and long-term maintenance solutions.
According to the ISPR, Air Marshal Khan commended the Pakistan Air Force’s operational performance and expressed interest in leveraging its expertise. He also sought cooperation in maintenance support for Bangladesh’s ageing aircraft fleet and assistance with the integration of air defence radar systems to improve aerial surveillance capabilities.
As part of the visit, the Bangladeshi delegation toured key PAF facilities, including the National ISR and Integrated Air Operations Centre, PAF Cyber Command, and the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park.
The military’s media wing noted that the visit reaffirmed the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh and demonstrated a mutual commitment to expanding defence ties and fostering a durable strategic partnership.