Pakistan and Bangladesh air chiefs discussed defence cooperation, including the potential procurement of JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft, the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Tuesday.
According to ISPR, Bangladesh Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan called on Pakistan Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu during his visit to Islamabad. The Bangladeshi air chief led a high-level defence delegation and received a guard of honour on arrival.
ISPR said both sides held detailed discussions on strengthening operational cooperation and institutional coordination, with a focus on training, capacity building, and collaboration in aerospace development.
Air Chief Marshal Babar Sidhu briefed the visiting delegation on recent advancements of the Pakistan Air Force and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to supporting the Bangladesh Air Force through a comprehensive training framework, ranging from basic to advanced and specialised courses at PAF institutions.
The PAF chief also assured fast-tracked delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft along with a complete training and long-term support ecosystem.
According to the statement, the Bangladeshi air chief praised the Pakistan Air Force’s combat record and expressed interest in benefiting from its operational experience. He sought assistance in maintenance support for the Bangladesh Air Force’s ageing fleet and the integration of air defence radar systems to enhance air surveillance.
ISPR said both sides also held detailed discussions on the potential procurement of the JF-17 Thunder aircraft. The visiting delegation later toured key Pakistan Air Force facilities.