Iraqi Air Force Shows Keen Interest in Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder Jets During PAF Chief’s Visit

ISLAMABAD: Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, NI (M), HJ, Chief of Air Staff of the Pakistan Air Force, during his official visit to Iraq, called on Lieutenant General Staff Pilot Mohanad Ghalib Mohammed Radi Al-Asadi, Commander of the Iraqi Air Force.The Air Chief was received with a Guard of Honour at the Iraqi Air Force Headquarters, reflecting the strong bond of mutual respect between the two air forces. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral military cooperation, particularly in areas of joint training, capacity building, and operational coordination.Air Chief Marshal Sidhu highlighted the deep-rooted religious, cultural, and historical ties between Pakistan and Iraq, reaffirming the PAF’s commitment to supporting the Iraqi Air Force in training and capability development. Both commanders agreed to pursue joint exercises and collaborative training initiatives to strengthen operational interoperability.The Iraqi Air Chief commended the PAF’s professionalism and technological expertise, expressed interest in benefiting from its world-class training programs, and showed keen interest in platforms such as the JF-17 Thunder fighter jets and Super Mushshak trainer aircraft. He also acknowledged Pakistan’s constructive role in regional stability.The visit underscored the shared determination of both air forces to further deepen defence ties and professional collaboration.