Bangladesh has entered talks with Pakistan to procure JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, signaling a possible new defence agreement as international interest in Pakistan’s combat aircraft continues to rise.
A high-level delegation led by Hasan Mahmood Khan, Chief of the Air Staff of the Bangladesh Air Force, visited Air Headquarters in Islamabad and held detailed discussions with Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff of the Pakistan Air Force.
The visiting air chief was accorded a guard of honor, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations.
The JF-17 Thunder, jointly developed by Pakistan and China, has emerged as a flagship export for Pakistan’s defence industry.
Interest in the aircraft surged after the May 2025 conflict with India, during which the Pakistan Air Force reported shooting down several Indian aircraft, including French-made Rafale jets.
The development also boosted the share price of China’s Chengdu Aircraft Corporation.
The meeting focused on strengthening operational cooperation and institutional synergy. Both sides discussed training, capacity building, and cooperation in aerospace development.
Air Chief Marshal Sidhu briefed the visiting delegation on recent PAF advancements and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to support the Bangladesh Air Force through a full training framework.
He also assured the fast-tracked delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft, along with long-term training and support arrangements. The Bangladeshi air chief praised PAF’s combat record and sought help in maintaining Bangladesh’s ageing fleet.
He also showed interest in integrating air defence radar systems to improve surveillance.
The delegation visited key PAF facilities, including the National ISR and Integrated Air Operations Centre, PAF Cyber Command, and the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park.
The visit highlighted the strong historical ties between the two countries and pointed to a shared ambition to deepen defence cooperation and build a long-term strategic partnership.
