Islamabad (TDI): Pakistan is in early discussions with Bangladesh on a possible defense agreement that could include the sale of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, as both countries look to deepen military ties and expand cooperation.
The talks took place in Islamabad between Pakistan’s Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and his Bangladeshi counterpart Hasan Mahmood Khan, focusing on a potential pact that would enhance defense collaboration and support Bangladesh’s modernization of its air force.
At the heart of the discussions was the possible procurement of JF-17 Thunder aircraft, lightweight, multirole combat jets jointly developed by Pakistan and China and built in Pakistan.
They also discussed the fast-tracked delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft along with associated training and long-term support.
For Pakistan, the potential agreement comes as part of a broader effort to expand its arms exports and military cooperation abroad.
The latest development also signals warming ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh, which have strengthened since political changes in Dhaka last year.
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Following Prime Minister Hasina’s removal, Pakistan and Bangladesh have restarted direct trade for the first time since Bangladesh’s independence in 1971, while military officials from both countries have also held multiple meetings.
With general elections scheduled for February 12 under an interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, the political landscape in Dhaka could see a notable role for a previously banned Islamist party that has historical ties to Pakistan.”
Aside from defense cooperation, military officials from both countries have been engaging in a series of meetings to explore shared interests and long-term collaboration.
Pakistan’s growing presence in the global defense market was highlighted by its recent multi-billion-dollar deal with Libya, which included 16 JF-17 fighter jets and 12 Super Mushshak trainer aircraft.
The Bangladeshi delegation also toured key PAF facilities, exploring Pakistan’s expertise in air defense, ISR, cyber, space, and unmanned systems, while seeking maintenance and integration support for its aging fleet.
This visit and potential JF-17 sales underscore Pakistan’s expanding footprint in the global arms market, as it continues to build military partnerships and generate revenue from its defense industry.
Minahil Khurshid holds a master’s degree in Peace and Conflict Studies from CIPS, NUST. She has a strong interest in current affairs, geopolitics, and policy analysis.
