In a significant development for South Asian geopolitics, the air force chiefs of Pakistan and Bangladesh have engaged in high-level discussions regarding a potential defence pact. The talks, confirmed by Pakistan's military, primarily focused on the possible sale of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets to Dhaka.
A Strategic Dialogue in Islamabad
The meeting took place in Islamabad between Pakistan's Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Bangladesh's Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan. According to a statement from the Pakistani military's press wing released on Tuesday, the officials held detailed negotiations on the procurement of the JF-17 Thunder. This aircraft is a multi-role combat jet co-developed by Pakistan and China.
Beyond the fighter jets, Pakistan has also assured Bangladesh of a "fast-tracked delivery" of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft. The offer includes a comprehensive training program and a long-term support ecosystem, indicating a deep commitment to defence collaboration.
Warming Ties Amid Regional Realignment
These military talks are a clear signal of rapidly improving relations between the two nations. The diplomatic thaw has been notable since August 2024, when massive protests led to then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fleeing to India, which subsequently strained Dhaka's relationship with New Delhi.
The Pakistani military stated that the visit highlighted the strong historical ties and a shared resolve to build a long-term strategic partnership. In the aftermath of Hasina's departure, Islamabad and Dhaka have resumed direct trade for the first time since the 1971 war that created Bangladesh. Several meetings between military officials have already taken place.
This realignment is occurring as Bangladesh, under an interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, prepares for general elections on February 12. The polls could potentially bring a once-banned Bangladeshi Islamist party with historical links to Pakistan into a significant government role.
Pakistan's Expanding Defence Ambitions
The JF-17 Thunder has become the cornerstone of Pakistan's weapons development and export program. Islamabad is actively capitalising on the aircraft's perceived success during the air conflict with India in May of last year—the worst fighting between the nuclear-armed neighbours in nearly three decades.
This model has already figured in an arms deal with Azerbaijan and a substantial $4-billion weapons pact with the Libyan National Army. Pakistan's Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, expressed strong confidence in the country's growing defence industry. In a statement to Geo News, he claimed, "Our aircraft have been tested, and we are receiving so many orders that Pakistan may not need the International Monetary Fund in six months." He suggested that this success could transform the nation's economic outlook.
The ongoing discussions between Pakistan and Bangladesh mark a notable shift in regional alliances and defence strategies. A successful deal would not only enhance Bangladesh's air capabilities but also solidify Pakistan's position as an emerging arms exporter, potentially reshaping the strategic balance in South Asia.
