In a significant move indicating a potential diplomatic realignment, Bangladesh has shown a keen interest in acquiring the JF-17 Thunder multi-role combat aircraft from Pakistan. This development coincides with the decision to restart direct air connectivity between the two nations after a gap of over ten years.
Strategic Talks on Fighter Jet Procurement
The Bangladesh Air Force chief, Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, held high-level discussions in Islamabad with his Pakistani counterpart, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu. According to a statement from the Pakistani military's media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the talks included "detailed discussions" on the "potential procurement" of the JF-17 Thunder aircraft.
The JF-17, a cornerstone of Pakistan's air power, is a single-engine, lightweight fighter jet co-developed by Pakistan and China. It is noteworthy that the Indian Air Force (IAF) chief, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, stated in November last year that the JF-17 was among at least five advanced Pakistani fighters shot down during Operation Sindoor in May 2024.
The ISPR statement emphasized that the meeting aimed to strengthen operational cooperation, with a focus on training, capacity building, and collaboration in aerospace technology. While Pakistan officially announced the discussions, Bangladesh has not yet released an official statement on the potential deal.
Revival of Direct Air Links
Parallel to the defense talks, a key civilian link is being restored. Biman Bangladesh Airlines, the national flag carrier, will launch direct flights on the Dhaka-Karachi-Dhaka route starting January 29. The airline plans to operate two weekly services on this route.
Biman officials confirmed that negotiations with Pakistani authorities had been underway for several months to revive this connection. This resumption marks the first direct flights between Dhaka and Karachi since 2012, re-establishing a vital travel corridor for business, tourism, and diaspora communities.
Implications and Regional Dynamics
The dual announcements of potential defense procurement and renewed air connectivity point towards a concerted effort by Dhaka and Islamabad to deepen bilateral ties. For Bangladesh, exploring the JF-17 could represent a diversification of its defense suppliers. For Pakistan, it is a significant diplomatic and potential export opportunity.
This warming of relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan is a development watched closely in the region, given the complex historical and geopolitical context involving India. The move underscores the evolving nature of strategic partnerships in South Asia, where economic and security interests continually shape foreign policy decisions.
