Bangladesh has expressed "potential interest" in purchasing JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft from Pakistan, the military said in a statement on Wednesday. The matter arose during formal discussions between Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan of the Bangladesh Air Force and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu of Pakistan on Tuesday in Islamabad.

China and Pakistan work together to produce the JF-17 Thunder. The aircraft is built to carry out a variety of combat functions.

According to a statement released by Pakistan's military's media wing, Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), "the meeting focused on strengthening operational cooperation and institutional synergy, with emphasis on training, capacity building, and collaboration in aerospace advancements."

"Detailed discussions were also held on the potential procurement of JF-17 Thunder aircraft," the statement continued.

According to the statement, Sidhu informed his Bangladeshi counterpart about the most recent developments in the PAF. He emphasized Pakistan's readiness to provide the Bangladesh Air Force with a comprehensive training program. According to him, the offer includes all flying training levels, from basic instruction to advanced and specialized courses, which will be held at various PAF institutions.

Members of the Bangladeshi delegation were briefed on operational capabilities and training infrastructure while touring key PAF facilities.

Additionally, Sidhu affirmed that Pakistan would guarantee the expedited delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft to Bangladesh. He added that long-term technical and maintenance support as well as a comprehensive training setup would support this.

According to the statement, "the visit highlighted the strong historical ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh and reflected a shared resolve to deepen defense cooperation and build a long-term strategic partnership."

Following changes in Bangladesh's political leadership in August 2024, relations between Islamabad and Dhaka have improved.