Pakistan Moves to Sell JF-17 Fighter Jets to Bangladesh
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Dhaka
- Jan 08, 2026
- 582
Pakistan is preparing to offer its JF-17 Thunder multi-role fighter jets to Bangladesh as defence cooperation between the two countries continues to deepen. Senior air force officials from both nations recently held discussions in Islamabad, a development confirmed by the Pakistani military.
According to a report by Bangladesh’s leading daily The Daily Star, Pakistan Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Zahir Ahmed Babar Sidhu met Bangladesh Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmud Khan to explore avenues of military collaboration. The potential sale of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets featured prominently in the talks, alongside broader defence cooperation.
The JF-17 Thunder, jointly developed by Pakistan and China, is a modern multi-role combat aircraft capable of conducting both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. The fighter jet is currently operational with the Pakistan Air Force and has been marketed internationally as a cost-effective combat platform.
In addition to the fighter aircraft proposal, Pakistan reportedly assured Bangladesh of fast-track delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft. The offer includes pilot training programs and long-term maintenance and support systems, aimed at strengthening Bangladesh’s air force capabilities.
The Pakistani Army stated that discussions are also underway to expand bilateral cooperation in defence, trade, and regional connectivity. However, Bangladesh has not yet issued any official confirmation regarding a potential fighter jet deal.
Diplomatic engagement between the two countries has increased notably in recent months, coinciding with shifting regional dynamics. Relations between India and Bangladesh have faced strain following the coup that removed former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. In contrast, ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh have steadily improved.
Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has met Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif twice since August 2024. Symbolic and practical steps have followed, including the arrival of a Pakistani cargo ship at Chittagong Port in November 2024—the first such visit since 1971.
Further diplomatic momentum was seen in April 2025 when the foreign secretaries of both nations met in Dhaka after a 15-year gap. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also visited Bangladesh later that month, marking the first high-level visit since 2012.
Over the past year, bilateral engagement has expanded across multiple fronts, including military exchanges, trade agreements, and direct shipping and banking channels. A roadmap for direct maritime connectivity between Karachi and Chittagong ports was finalized in December 2025, underscoring the growing strategic partnership.