Islamabad (Staff Reporter)
A high-level Bangladeshi defense delegation, led by Air Chief Marshal Hassan Mahmud Khan, Chief of the Air Staff of Bangladesh Air Force, met with Pakistan Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu at Air Headquarters Islamabad. The meeting aimed to enhance operational cooperation and institutional coordination between the two air forces.
During the meeting, both Air Chiefs discussed avenues for deepening bilateral cooperation, emphasizing joint training exercises and collaboration in aerospace development. Upon arrival, the Bangladeshi delegation received a guard of honor from the Pakistan Air Force.
Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu warmly welcomed the delegation and briefed them on the PAF’s recent advancements and modern capabilities. He highlighted the strong religious and historical ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh as a foundation for exemplary military cooperation and assured full support to Bangladesh Air Force in tackling modern operational challenges.
The PAF Chief emphasized offering extensive training opportunities for Bangladeshi cadets and pilots, including access to advanced training institutions in Pakistan. The supply of advanced trainer aircraft will be expedited to meet Bangladesh Air Force requirements, ensuring timely induction, operational readiness, and long-term support.
Air Chief Marshal Hassan Mahmud Khan praised PAF’s operational record and expressed keen interest in learning from its professional expertise. He also sought Pakistan’s assistance in enhancing Bangladesh Air Force’s air defense systems, including radar integration and overall capacity building.
Both leaders discussed JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, reflecting prospects for long-term defense collaboration. The Bangladeshi Air Chief also appreciated the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park’s advanced infrastructure, particularly in ISR, cyber, space technology, electronic warfare, and unmanned aerial systems.
During the visit, the delegation toured critical operational and strategic facilities, including the National ISR and Integrated Air Operations Center and PAF Cyber Command, receiving briefings on Pakistan Air Force’s capabilities in emerging warfare domains.
The visit underscores the unwavering commitment of Pakistan and Bangladesh to strengthen defense cooperation, operational collaboration, and capacity building.