Pakistan and Bangladesh Advance Talks on JF-17 Fighter Jet Sale and Defense Pact

High-Level Discussions Confirm Potential Defense Deal

Pakistan has officially confirmed advanced discussions with Bangladesh concerning a significant defense pact and the potential sale of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. These high-level talks took place in Islamabad on January 6-7, involving Pakistan's Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Bangladesh Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan. The discussions underscore a notable warming of relations between the two South Asian nations.

JF-17 Thunder: A Key Component of the Proposed Sale

At the core of the proposed agreement is the JF-17 Thunder, a lightweight, multi-role combat aircraft jointly developed by China and the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC). This aircraft is designed for a variety of missions, including interception, ground attack, anti-ship operations, and aerial reconnaissance. The Block III variant, which Bangladesh is reportedly considering, features advanced avionics, an AESA radar, and compatibility with long-range PL-15 missiles, placing it in the 4.5-generation class. Bangladesh is reportedly considering the purchase of 16 to 32 JF-17 Block III jets, a deal estimated to be worth approximately $2 billion.

In addition to the fighter jets, Pakistan has committed to the fast-tracked delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft. This package would also include a comprehensive training program and long-term support for Bangladeshi pilots, further solidifying Pakistan's role as a defense partner.

Deepening Bilateral Ties and Strategic Implications

The renewed defense engagement signals a significant improvement in Pakistan-Bangladesh relations. This warming trend has been observed since political changes in Dhaka in August 2024, which saw former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina depart for India amid mass protests. Since then, direct trade between Islamabad and Dhaka has resumed for the first time since Bangladesh's independence in 1971, and military officials from both countries have held multiple meetings to explore cooperation.

For Bangladesh, this acquisition forms part of a broader strategy to modernize its air force, overseen by the Directorate General of Defence Purchase (DGDP). The country is also exploring other high-end platforms, such as Italy's Eurofighter Typhoon and China's Chengdu J-10C, as part of a 'high-low' strategy to enhance its air capabilities.

From Pakistan's perspective, the potential deal aligns with its growing ambitions to expand arms exports and leverage its domestic defense industry for economic and geopolitical influence. Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has indicated that the success of the country's weapons industry could significantly boost its economy.

Future Outlook Amidst Political Landscape

Bangladesh is currently under an interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, with general elections scheduled for February 12, 2026. The outcome of these elections could further influence Dhaka's defense policy and its strategic partnerships. The ongoing discussions represent a pivotal moment in the evolving defense and diplomatic landscape of South Asia.