Pakistan and Bangladesh’s air force leadership held in-depth talks on the possible acquisition of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Tuesday.
The JF-17 Thunder is a multi-role combat aircraft jointly produced by Pakistan and China. It has demonstrated its operational effectiveness during military standoffs with India in 2019 and again in 2025.
According to an ISPR statement, Bangladesh Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan met Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu during his visit to Islamabad. The Bangladeshi air chief was accompanied by a senior-level defence delegation.
The discussions centered on enhancing bilateral cooperation and institutional coordination, with particular focus on training, capacity development, and collaboration in aerospace technology and innovation.
ISPR said the visiting air chief was presented with a guard of honour upon arrival. During the meeting, Air Chief Marshal Sidhu briefed his counterpart on recent developments within the PAF and reiterated Pakistan’s willingness to support the Bangladesh Air Force through a comprehensive training program. This support would cover basic and advanced flying instruction as well as specialised courses offered at PAF institutions.
He also assured expedited delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft, along with a complete training framework and long-term technical and logistical support.
The statement said the Bangladeshi air chief commended the PAF’s operational performance and expressed interest in drawing on its experience. He sought cooperation in maintenance support for Bangladesh’s aging aircraft fleet and in integrating air defence radar systems to strengthen air surveillance capabilities.
ISPR added that detailed exchanges were held regarding the potential purchase of JF-17 Thunder aircraft, while the visiting delegation also toured key PAF facilities.
The visit highlighted the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh and reflected a mutual commitment to expanding defence collaboration and fostering a durable strategic partnership.