Bangladesh, Pakistan air chiefs talk 'potential procurement' of JF-17 Thunder aircraft

Bangladesh and Pakistan's air chiefs have held a discussion on the "potential procurement" of JF-17 Thunder aircraft, according to the Inter Services Public Relations Directorate of Pakistan.

Bangladesh Air Force Chief Air Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan met Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Chief Air Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu in Islamabad. Khan headed a senior defence delegation during the visit, reports Dawn.

The meeting centred on expanding operational cooperation and institutional synergy, with particular focus on training, capacity building and collaboration in aerospace technology.

The Bangladeshi air chief received a guard of honour on arrival.

Air Chief Marshal Sidhu briefed his counterpart on PAF's latest developments and pledged support for the Bangladesh Air Force through a full training pipeline, from basic flying to advanced and specialised courses.

He also promised expedited delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft, backed by a long‑term training and support framework.

Khan commended PAF's combat record and voiced interest in drawing on its operational expertise. He sought help with the maintenance of Bangladesh's ageing fleet and with integrating air defence radar systems to strengthen surveillance.

The ISPR Directorate confirmed that detailed discussions were held on the potential procurement of JF‑17 Thunder aircraft. The delegation also toured key PAF facilities.

The visit highlighted the historic ties between the two countries and signalled a shared intent to deepen defence cooperation and build a lasting strategic partnership.

The JF‑17, jointly produced by China and Pakistan, is a multi‑role aircraft that has already demonstrated its combat effectiveness in clashes with India in 2019 and 2025.