Praising the professional capabilities and technological advancement of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), Iraq on Saturday expressed strong interest in JF-17 Thunder fighter jets and Super Mushshak training aircraft.
According to sources, during the official visit of PAF Chief Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu to Iraq, the Iraqi Air Force showed keen interest in the JF-17 Thunder. Detailed discussions were held between the air forces of both countries on defense cooperation, joint training, and capacity enhancement.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu visited the headquarters of the Iraqi Air Force during his official tour, where he was presented with a guard of honor. He later met with the Commander of the Iraqi Air Force. During the meeting, comprehensive discussions took place on bilateral defense and air cooperation, while both sides agreed to enhance joint training, strengthen capabilities, and explore new avenues of future collaboration. The Air Chief assured full support from the Pakistan Air Force in the training domain of the Iraqi Air Force.
ISPR stated that the meeting also highlighted the religious, cultural, and historical ties between Pakistan and Iraq, and both sides agreed to conduct joint air exercises. The Iraqi Air Chief praised the professional expertise and operational capabilities of the Pakistan Air Force and expressed strong interest in the JF-17 Thunder. Additionally, the Iraqi Air Force also showed interest in PAF’s Super Mushshak training aircraft.
The Iraqi Air Force Chief appreciated Pakistan’s role in promoting regional stability. According to ISPR, this visit will further strengthen defense and air relations between Pakistan and Iraq.
It is worth mentioning that earlier, Bangladesh Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan had also praised the Pakistan Air Force’s outstanding combat record and expressed interest in benefiting from its operational expertise. He showed willingness to seek cooperation in the maintenance and repair of the aging fleet of the Bangladesh Air Force, as well as in improving aerial surveillance through the integration of air defense radar systems.
It is also noteworthy that discussions are underway between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to convert approximately $2 billion in Saudi loans into a contract for JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. This move is expected to further deepen military cooperation following the bilateral defense agreement signed between the two countries last year.
