ISLAMABAD: The recent discussions between Bangladesh and Pakistan regardingthe potential procurement of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets have drawn sharpattention from India, which has emphasized its vigilant monitoring ofdevelopments with implications for national security. On January 9, IndianMinistry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that NewDelhi keeps a close watch on matters bearing on its security interests.This response came in direct reference to talks held during the visit ofBangladesh Air Force Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan to Islamabad earlierthis month, highlighting growing unease in South Asia over shiftingmilitary alignments.
The high-level meeting between the air chiefs of Pakistan and Bangladeshtook place on January 6, marking one of the most significant defenceengagements between the two nations since 1971. During the discussions,detailed modalities for the procurement of the JF-17 Thunder, a multirolecombat aircraft jointly developed by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex andChina’s Chengdu Aircraft Corporation, were explored. Bangladesh’s intereststems from the urgent need to address its ageing combat fleet, whichincludes outdated Chinese F-7 variants and a limited number of MiG-29s,posing challenges to operational readiness in an increasingly complexregional environment.
The JF-17 Thunder has emerged as an attractive option for Bangladesh due toits cost-effectiveness and advanced capabilities. The latest Block 3variant features an active electronically scanned array radar, enhancedavionics, and the ability to deploy beyond-visual-range missiles,positioning it as a 4.5-generation fighter. With a top speed of Mach 1.6and a unit cost estimated between 25 to 32 million dollars, the aircraftoffers substantial value compared to more expensive Western alternatives.Reports suggest Bangladesh may seek between 20 to 48 units to replacelegacy platforms under its Forces Goal 2030 modernization program, withpotential initial deliveries of a squadron valued around 720 milliondollars.
Pakistan’s push to export the JF-17 reflects broader defence diplomacyefforts, bolstered by the aircraft’s proven performance in recent regionalconflicts. The platform serves as the backbone of the Pakistan Air Force,with over 150 units in service, and has attracted interest from othernations seeking affordable yet capable multirole fighters. The dealdiscussions also encompassed training support, maintenance assistance, andintegration of air defence systems, underscoring Islamabad’s commitment toa comprehensive partnership with Dhaka amid warming bilateral tiesfollowing political changes in Bangladesh.
India’s reaction underscores longstanding sensitivities regarding militarydevelopments in neighbouring countries. New Delhi views any strengtheningof defence cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh as potentiallyaltering the regional balance, particularly given the JF-17’s Chinesetechnological origins. The spokesperson clarified that issues such asresumed direct flights between Dhaka and Karachi would be handled perexisting air services agreements, but the fighter jet talks carry deeperstrategic weight. This monitoring stance aligns with India’s broader policyof scrutinizing arms acquisitions that could impact its security perimeter.
Experts note that Bangladesh’s pursuit of modern fighters is driven bynecessity rather than confrontation. The current fleet, comprising around35 F-7s and eight MiG-29s, faces maintenance and obsolescence issues,limiting effective air surveillance and combat roles. Acquiring JF-17scould enhance interoperability, provide advanced radar integration, andsupport long-term sustainability through training ecosystems. However, theprocess remains exploratory, with no formal contract confirmed, leavingroom for alternative options like Chinese J-10s or European platforms.
The evolving dynamics highlight a recalibration in South Asian defencerelations. Pakistan’s success in promoting the JF-17 as a combat-proven,low-cost solution has expanded its export ambitions, while Bangladeshprioritizes fleet renewal amid fiscal constraints. For India, thesedevelopments raise questions about potential shifts in alliances andcapabilities near its borders, prompting continued close observation. Asnegotiations progress, the outcome could influence airpower configurationsacross the region for years to come.
Source:https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/pakistan-eyes-defence-pact-with-bangladesh-sale-jf-17-jets-2026-01-07/
Tags: Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, JF-17 Thunder, Pakistan Air Force
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