ISLAMABAD: In a significant development underscoring the evolving defenceties between Pakistan and Bangladesh, the Chief of the Air Staff of theBangladesh Air Force, Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, has formallysought assistance from the Pakistan Air Force in integrating air defenceradar systems. This request, made during high-level talks in Islamabad onJanuary 6, 2026, aims to bolster Bangladesh’s air surveillance capabilitiesalong its borders. The initiative comes amid broader discussions onpotential procurement of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, highlighting astrategic push to modernize Dhaka’s aerial defences in an increasinglycomplex regional security environment. The move has sparked interest in howhistorical relations between the two nations could translate into tangiblemilitary cooperation.
The meeting between Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan and his Pakistanicounterpart took place against the backdrop of warming bilateral relationsthat have gained momentum since early 2025. Multiple high-level exchanges,including visits by military delegations, have laid the groundwork fordeeper collaboration. The Bangladeshi delegation praised the Pakistan AirForce’s proven combat record in various operations, expressing keeninterest in leveraging its operational expertise. This admiration extendsbeyond rhetoric, as Dhaka faces challenges with an ageing fleet of aircraftrequiring sustained maintenance support and technological upgrades tomaintain operational readiness in the face of emerging threats.
Central to the discussions was Bangladesh’s pressing need for enhancedborder surveillance through integrated air defence radar systems. Thecountry shares land and maritime boundaries that demand robust monitoringto counter potential intrusions, smuggling, and other security risks.Pakistan’s experience in developing and deploying indigenous radartechnologies, including those associated with the JF-17 program andnational air defence networks, positions it as a valuable partner. Suchintegration could involve technology transfer, joint training, andcustomized solutions tailored to Bangladesh’s terrain and operationalrequirements, thereby addressing gaps in real-time detection and responsecapabilities.
Experts note that Bangladesh’s air force modernization drive hasaccelerated in recent years, driven by the need to diversify defencepartnerships and reduce dependency on traditional suppliers. The requestfor radar and air defence integration reflects a pragmatic approach tostrengthening aerial domain awareness, which is critical for nationalsecurity. Pakistan’s air defence architecture, incorporating layeredsystems capable of detecting low-flying threats and coordinating withground-based units, offers a model that could be adapted effectively. Thiscollaboration could also include capacity building programs, wherePakistani instructors train Bangladeshi personnel on advanced radaroperations and maintenance protocols.
The talks also touched on broader institutional synergy, including trainingexchanges and aerospace advancements. Pakistan has assured support forfast-tracking deliveries of related equipment, such as trainer aircraft,which complements the radar initiative. Analysts observe that suchpartnerships enhance interoperability between the two air forces, fosteringlong-term strategic alignment. For Bangladesh, accessing Pakistan’sexpertise represents a cost-effective way to upgrade its systems withoutsolely relying on Western or other suppliers, amid global supply chainconstraints and geopolitical considerations.
This development carries implications for regional stability in South Asia.Improved surveillance along borders could contribute to confidence-buildingmeasures between neighboring states, reducing miscalculations in air spacemanagement. Observers point out that the request aligns with Pakistan’spush to expand defence exports, leveraging its indigenous capabilities tobuild partnerships in the Muslim world and beyond. The potential for jointventures in radar technology could stimulate economic benefits throughtechnology sharing and local manufacturing.
As discussions progress, both sides have expressed optimism about forging alasting strategic partnership rooted in shared history and mutualinterests. The integration of air defence radar systems, if realized, wouldmark a milestone in post-1971 relations, demonstrating how defencecooperation can bridge past divides. Future meetings are expected tooutline specific timelines, technical specifications, and frameworks forimplementation, keeping the momentum alive in this emerging chapter ofbilateral ties.
Source:https://www.dawn.com/news/1965452/procurement-of-jf-17-aircraft-comes-under-discussion-during-meeting-between-air-chief-bangladeshi-counterpart
Tags: Pakistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan Air Force, Bangladesh Air Force, JF-17Thunder
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