The air force chiefs of Pakistan and Bangladesh Pakistani military officials held talks in Islamabad regarding a potential agreement for the sale of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets to Dhaka. These discussions reflect Islamabad's desire to expand its arms exports and strengthen its ties with Bangladesh.
The talks brought together the Chief of Staff of the Pakistani Air Force, Field Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, and his Bangladeshi counterpart, Hasan Mahmood KhanThe discussions focused in detail on the acquisition of the JF-17 Thunder, a multirole combat aircraft jointly developed by Pakistan and China. Pakistan also assured Bangladesh of an expedited delivery of Super Mushshak training aircraft, along with a comprehensive training package and long-term support.
These exchanges take place against a backdrop of warming bilateral relations. The two South Asian countries have grown closer since the massive protests of August 2024 that forced the former Bangladeshi Prime Minister to resign. Sheikh Hasina to seek refuge in India, deteriorating relations between Dhaka and New Delhi. Islamabad and Dhaka have since resumed direct trade for the first time since the 1971 war that led to Bangladesh's independence, while their military leaders have increased contacts.
Under an interim administration led by the Nobel laureate Muhammad YunusBangladesh is preparing for general elections scheduled for February 12. This election could pave the way for a greater role for a formerly banned Islamist party, historically linked to Pakistan.
The JF-17 has become a cornerstone of Pakistan's arms program and is already included in agreements with Azerbaijan, as well as in a $4 billion arms deal with the Libyan National Army. On Tuesday, the Pakistani Defense Minister, Khawaja AsifHe estimated that the success of the domestic arms industry could transform the country's economic prospects, stating that the influx of orders could rapidly reduce Pakistan's dependence on international financial aid.
