Bangladesh air force chief visits Islamabad, discusses potential purchase of PAF’s...

Key Highlights

• Despite featuring a diverse payload capacity and speed of Mach 1.8, its recent combat during Operation Sindoor highlighted its many structural deficiencies as it was heavily outmatched, and outmanoeuvred by the Indian Air Force’s far more advanced stockpile of Rafael, Sukhoi-30 MKI, and Tejas aircrafts.
• “Detailed discussions were also held on the potential procurement of JF-17 Thunder aircraft,” the ISPR statemen said, adding “The meeting also focused on strengthening operational cooperation and institutional synergy, with emphasis on training, capacity building, and collaboration in aerospace advancements.” As per the Pakistan military mouthpiece, PAF ACM Babar Sidhu briefed his BAF counterpart Hasan Khan, and elaborated on the recent advancements of the JF-17 Block III, reaffirming the PAF’s commitment to support the BAF via a comprehensive training framework from basic to advanced flying and specialised courses across PAF institutions.
• “He also assured fast-tracked delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft, along with a complete training and long-term support ecosystem,” the ISPR statement read.
• “The Bangladeshi air chief praised PAF’s combat record and expressed interest in benefiting from its operational expertise, seeking assistance in maintenance support for Bangladesh Air Force’s ageing fleet and integration of air defence radar systems to enhance air surveillance,” the statement added.
• The Bangladeshi delegation, according to the military’s media wing, also visited key PAF facilities, including the National ISR & Integrated Air Operations Centre, PAF Cyber Command, and the National Aerospace Science & Technology Park.