ISLAMABAD: In a significant development signalling deepening defence tiesbetween Pakistan and Bangladesh, the air chiefs of both nations engaged indetailed discussions on the potential procurement of JF-17 Thunder fighteraircraft. Bangladesh Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khanmet Pakistan Air Force Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, focusing onenhancing bilateral military cooperation amid evolving regional securitydynamics.
The meeting, held at the Pakistan Air Force headquarters, underscoredshared historical bonds and a mutual commitment to bolster operationalsynergies. The Inter-Services Public Relations statement highlightedemphasis on training programmes, capacity building initiatives, and jointadvancements in aerospace technologies, paving the way for strongerinstitutional collaboration in the defence sector.
A key highlight was the in-depth dialogue on acquiring the JF-17 Thunder, amulti-role combat aircraft jointly developed by Pakistan and China. Thisfighter jet has gained international recognition for its cost-effectivenessand advanced capabilities, making it an attractive option for air forcesseeking modern, affordable solutions to upgrade their fleets withoutexcessive financial burden.
The JF-17 Thunder has demonstrated proven combat effectiveness inreal-world scenarios. It played a crucial role during the 2019 Balakotairstrike aftermath and the 2025 India-Pakistan military engagements, whereit showcased superior performance in air-to-air and air-to-groundoperations, solidifying its reputation as a battle-tested platform reliablein high-intensity conflicts.
Bangladesh’s interest in the JF-17 aligns with its ongoing efforts tomodernise the Bangladesh Air Force, which currently operates a mix ofageing aircraft. Procuring these jets could significantly enhance Dhaka’saerial defence capabilities, providing advanced radar systems,beyond-visual-range missiles, and electronic warfare features essential forcontemporary aerial warfare requirements.
Sources indicate that Bangladesh may be considering up to 16-40 units ofthe latest JF-17 Block III variant, equipped with cutting-edge avionics andactive electronically scanned array radar. This potential deal represents amajor boost for Pakistan’s defence exports, following successful sales tocountries like Nigeria, Myanmar, and Azerbaijan in recent years.
The discussions also explored collaboration in trainer aircraft, such asthe Super Mushshak, further broadening the scope of military-technicalcooperation. Both sides expressed optimism about translating these talksinto concrete agreements, fostering long-term partnerships that contributeto regional stability and mutual security interests.
However, any formal agreement or signing ceremony for the JF-17 procurementis expected to be deferred until after Bangladesh’s general electionsscheduled for February 2026. The formation of a new permanent governmentwill likely finalise such strategic defence decisions, ensuring continuityand political consensus on major acquisitions.
This development comes at a time when Bangladesh is recalibrating itsforeign and defence policies post-political transitions. Pakistan’soutreach reflects its strategic push to expand influence in South Asiathrough defence diplomacy, leveraging the JF-17 as a flagship exportproduct co-produced with China.
Analysts view this engagement as a positive step towards normalisingrelations strained in the past, driven by pragmatic security needs. Thepotential deal could reshape air power balances in the region, offeringBangladesh an independent, versatile fighter capability while strengtheningPakistan-China collaborative ventures in global arms markets.
Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1965452
Tags: Pakistan, Bangladesh, JF-17 Thunder, Air Force, Defence Cooperation
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