RAWALPINDI: A high-level defence delegation led by Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, Chief of the Air Staff of the Bangladesh Air Force, called on Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff of the Pakistan Air Force, at Air Headquarters in Islamabad on Monday.
According to ISPR, the meeting focused on strengthening operational cooperation and institutional synergy between the two air forces, with particular emphasis on training, capacity building and collaboration in aerospace advancements.
The visiting air chief was accorded a guard of honour on arrival. During the meeting, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu briefed his counterpart on recent advancements made by the Pakistan Air Force and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to supporting the Bangladesh Air Force through a comprehensive training framework, ranging from basic to advanced flying and specialised courses at PAF institutions.
He also assured the fast-tracked delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft, along with a complete training and long-term support ecosystem.
The Bangladesh air chief praised the Pakistan Air Force’s combat record and expressed interest in benefiting from its operational expertise. He sought assistance in maintenance support for the Bangladesh Air Force’s ageing fleet and the integration of air defence radar systems to enhance air surveillance capabilities.
Detailed discussions were also held on the potential procurement of JF-17 Thunder aircraft. During the visit, the delegation toured key PAF facilities, including the National ISR and Integrated Air Operations Centre, PAF Cyber Command and the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park, where they observed capabilities related to intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, cyber, space, electronic warfare and unmanned systems.
The visit underscored the strong historical ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh and reflected a shared resolve to further deepen defence cooperation and build a long-term strategic partnership between the two countries.