The recent talks about a defense pact between Bangladesh and Pakistan provide a bright spot in their otherwise tense relationship. After the political changes in Dhaka in 2024, relations between the two countries began to warm, culminating in talks between high-ranking officials on January 6, 2026. Bangladesh Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan and Pakistan Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu discussed the possibility of importing the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet. This agreement falls under the Forces Goal 2030 plan to modernize the fleet economically. Pakistan’s expansion of its defense export industry benefits the country as well. Though the plans were criticized by neighboring India regarding their “security” implications, in reality, the initiatives are defensive rather than offensive.
According to the ISPR of Pakistan, the meeting on January 6 was more than just an acquisition process. Discussions included technology transfer, combined training opportunities from basic to advanced levels, capacity building, and maintenance support for aging Bangladeshi fighter jets. The commitment included the immediate delivery of Super Mushshak training planes along with support services. The Bangladeshi team visited various facilities such as the National ISR and Integrated Air Operations Centre and the PAF Cyber Command.
This engagement continues with direct trade and flights between Dhaka and Karachi starting January 29, 2026, marking the end of the chill in relations since 1971. Bangladesh’s caretaker government, following the 2024 changes, is seeking diversification in its partnerships and is exploring options that may include Chinese J-10s (20 ordered for $2.2 billion) and Eurofighter Typhoons (10–16 under a memorandum of understanding). However, the cost-effectiveness of the JF-17 makes it an attractive fit for budget-conscious modernization.
Central to this dialogue is the JF-17 Thunder Block III, a 4.5-generation multi-role fighter jet co-developed by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) in collaboration with Chengdu Aircraft Corporation of China. The aircraft is 14.9 meters long, with a wingspan of 9.4 meters, a maximum takeoff weight of 12,700 kg, and a thrust-to-weight ratio of 1.07. Powered by the Klimov RD-93MA turbofan engine (91.2 kN), it operates at Mach 1.8 (1,910 km/h), with a ceiling of 55,500 ft and a combat range of 1,350 km. Its AESA radar system, the KLJ-7A, tracks targets up to 170 km, complemented by avionics such as helmet-mounted displays, infrared search and track, and electronic warfare systems.
The aircraft can carry a maximum of 3,300 kg of ordnance on seven hardpoints, including PL-12 beyond-visual-range missiles, anti-ship CM-400s, precision-guided bombs, and a 23mm GSh-23-2 cannon. The JF-17 saw action during Pakistan’s four-day skirmishes with India in May 2025, triggered by a false-flag terrorist attack in Kashmir on April 22.
Pakistan benefits significantly from such agreements, establishing its crucial role in the international defense sector. The JF-17 has secured overseas sales contracts in Myanmar (8–16 aircraft), Nigeria (3), Azerbaijan (40 planes for $4.6 billion, plus an additional $4.6 billion following an initial $1.6 billion agreement), and Iraq (latest subscriber). Other countries under consideration include Libya ($4 billion for 16 planes plus infrastructure), Sudan ($1.5 billion including drones and air defense systems), and Saudi Arabia ($2–4 billion loan swap for JF-17 sales). These sales, based on the jet’s affordability, reliability, and proven performance in the 2025 clashes, demonstrate Pakistan’s growing reliance on homegrown technologies despite a limited $11 billion military budget in 2025–26, up by 20% following the conflicts.
Compared to F-16 or Gripen alternatives, the JF-17 provides similar capabilities at half the cost, with flexible payment and training options. Increased exports not only benefit the Pakistani economy but also promote South-South cooperation, reducing dependence on superpowers.
Bangladesh’s pursuit of the JF-17 aligns with its Forces Goal 2030, aimed at building a technologically advanced force despite resource constraints. With a defense budget of $3.34 billion in 2025–26 (1.9% of GDP), the country seeks to phase out aging aircraft while diversifying suppliers. This includes 20 Chinese J-10CE jets for $2.2 billion for 4.5-generation capabilities and 10–16 Eurofighter Typhoons for $1.8–2 billion for Western diversification. Interest in 48 JF-17 Block IIIs, initially a squadron of 16 aircraft for $720 million, reflects a balanced approach to enhancing airspace surveillance with radar integration without overcommitting. This strategy addresses vulnerabilities such as an average fleet age of 19 years and focuses on deterrence in the Bay of Bengal amid geopolitical changes.
Following the strained post-1971 relations, the 2024 political changes in Bangladesh opened the door for reconciliation. Resumed trade, military exchanges, and direct flights signal progress. Bangladesh’s exploration of J-10s alongside JF-17s demonstrates sovereign choice rather than a pivot toward a Pakistan-China axis. Pakistan’s combat experience from the 2025 clashes (ceasefire on May 10 via U.S. mediation) provides valuable training, fostering mutual growth and reducing reliance on superpowers.
India has expressed vigilance over these discussions. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, on January 9, stated that India is “closely monitoring” the talks for security concerns, though this may exaggerate the threat. While New Delhi has cited narrower tensions, including Teesta water disputes, the renewal of the Ganges Treaty (set to expire in 2026), and border issues, incidents such as BSF-BGB fence face-offs or 2024 floods caused by Indian dam discharges have heightened concerns. Nonetheless, Bangladesh’s modernization is defensive, not offensive, and the relative defense budgets—$81 billion for India, $11 billion for Pakistan, and $3.34 billion for Bangladesh—reflect no significant imbalance. Critics in India have framed these developments as hostile, but Bangladesh’s diversification responds pragmatically to regional challenges, including failed water-sharing agreements and migration issues.
Mutual cooperation between Bangladesh and Pakistan enhances regional stability. Training and technology transfers foster trust and reduce terrorism risks. According to Al Jazeera, the 2025 skirmishes increased the attractiveness of the JF-17 without escalating conflict. Given India’s dominance, maintaining close ties with other neighbors promotes peace and benefits all parties. The Bangladesh-Pakistan initiative signals the beginning of a multipolar South Asia, where constructive relationships can overcome historical divisions. A self-reliant neighborhood strengthens regional stability and supports the development of constructive partnerships.
