In a significant move to bolster their strategic partnership, Pakistan and Bangladesh engaged in high-level defence talks in Islamabad on Tuesday. The discussions, centered on deepening military cooperation, notably included the potential acquisition of Pakistan's JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft by Bangladesh.
High-Level Talks and Mutual Commitments
The dialogue was led by Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), and his Bangladeshi counterpart, Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan. The visiting Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) chief was welcomed with a formal guard of honour at the Air Headquarters.
According to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the meeting focused on strengthening operational ties and creating institutional synergy. A major outcome was Pakistan's reaffirmed commitment to support the BAF through a comprehensive training framework. This initiative will cover everything from basic flying instruction to advanced and specialized courses at various PAF institutions.
Air Chief Marshal Sidhu also assured the fast-tracked delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft, coupled with a complete training and long-term logistical support package tailored to Bangladesh's needs.
JF-17 Thunder: A Centerpiece of Future Cooperation
A pivotal element of the talks was Bangladesh's expressed interest in learning from the PAF's combat experience and its proven platforms. The ISPR explicitly stated that "detailed discussions were also held on potential procurement of JF-17 Thunder aircraft."
This indicates a growing interest from Dhaka in Pakistan's flagship multi-role fighter jet, co-produced with China. The Bangladeshi air chief acknowledged the PAF's distinguished combat record and sought assistance in maintaining the BAF's ageing fleet and integrating modern air defence radar systems to boost surveillance capabilities.
Broadening the Strategic Horizon
The Bangladeshi delegation's itinerary extended beyond the headquarters. They visited key PAF facilities, including the National ISR & Integrated Air Operations Centre, the PAF Cyber Command, and the National Aerospace Science & Technology Park. These visits showcased Pakistan's advanced capabilities in intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), cyber, space, electronic warfare, and unmanned aerial systems.
This high-profile visit is the latest in a series of exchanges, signaling a gradual transformation in bilateral relations, especially in defence and security. The shift follows a broader recalibration after the political changes in Dhaka in August 2024.
While Bangladesh maintains its complex relationship with India, it has been pragmatically exploring new avenues of cooperation. The recent uptick in diplomatic and defence engagements with Pakistan underscores a mutual desire to build a long-term, strategic partnership based on shared interests and historical ties, with the JF-17 Thunder emerging as a potential symbol of this renewed collaboration.
