Pakistan, Bangladesh Air Chiefs Discuss Training, Radar Integration and Possible JF-17 Deal

Pakistan and Bangladesh have taken fresh steps to expand bilateral air force cooperation, as a high-level defence delegation led by Hasan Mahmood Khan, Chief of the Air Staff of the Bangladesh Air Force, held talks with Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), at Air Headquarters in Islamabad.

According to a statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the meeting focused on strengthening operational cooperation and institutional synergy, with particular emphasis on training, capacity building, and collaboration in advanced aerospace technologies.

Training, Aircraft and Operational Support

The visiting Bangladeshi Air Chief was accorded a Guard of Honour on arrival. During the talks, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu briefed his counterpart on the PAF’s recent operational and technological advancements, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to support the Bangladesh Air Force through a comprehensive training framework.

This framework spans basic to advanced flying training, as well as specialised courses across Pakistan Air Force institutions. The PAF chief also assured fast-tracked delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft, alongside a complete training, maintenance and long-term support ecosystem to ensure sustained operational readiness.

Interest in Radar Integration and JF-17 Thunder

Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan praised the Pakistan Air Force’s combat record and operational experience, expressing interest in leveraging PAF expertise to address Bangladesh Air Force requirements. Discussions included maintenance support for Bangladesh’s aging aircraft fleet and cooperation on the integration of air-defence radar systems to enhance airspace surveillance and early warning capability.

Sources confirmed that detailed deliberations were also held on the potential procurement of JF-17 Thunder multi-role fighter aircraft, reflecting Bangladesh’s interest in cost-effective platforms with modern avionics and weapons integration.

Visit to Key PAF Facilities

During the visit, the Bangladeshi delegation toured several key Pakistan Air Force facilities, including the National ISR & Integrated Air Operations Centre, PAF Cyber Command, and the National Aerospace Science & Technology Park. The delegation was briefed on Pakistan’s growing capabilities in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), cyber operations, space, electronic warfare, and unmanned systems.

Strategic Significance

The visit underscored the strong historical defence ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh and highlighted a shared intent to elevate cooperation into a long-term strategic partnership. Analysts say enhanced training collaboration, aircraft support, and possible fighter acquisition could significantly strengthen Bangladesh Air Force capabilities while reinforcing Pakistan’s role as a regional defence partner.