Defense cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh seems to be increasing rapidly in recent months. Pakistan announced at the Dubai Airshow that it is soon going to sell JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jet to a friendly country. As soon as this came to light, military analysts started speculating as to who this country could be. Reports that emerged two days later indicated that this friendly country could actually be Bangladesh. The new political equations formed after the fall of Sheikh Hasina government have reactivated the relations between Dhaka and Islamabad. The interim government has taken steps towards reviving defense cooperation with both China and Pakistan. In such times, the acquisition of modern fighter aircraft like JF-17 can prove to be a big change for Bangladesh Air Force.

According to Defense Security Asia report, Pakistan may be ready to provide 16 to 24 JF-17 Thunder Block-III to Bangladesh. The estimated deal could be between 400 to 700 million dollars. This will be considered the biggest fighter jet acquisition in the history of Bangladesh Air Force. India is also keeping an eye on this possible agreement, because this deal can affect the balance of security situations in the North-Eastern region.

Why the search for JF-17 increased among the old fleet

Bangladesh has been trying to modernize its air fleet for a long time. It has aircraft like F-7, MiG-29 and Yak-130, whose technology is considered weak compared to modern warfare requirements. Dhaka formally began the evaluation of the JF-17 in January 2025, studying the machine’s technical capabilities, weapon systems and cost, as Bangladesh wants modern technology within a limited budget. This is a joint project of Pakistan-China, hence its price is less than half that of western fighter planes. The leadership that came to power after the Sheikh Hasina government has shown interest in increasing defense cooperation with Pakistan and China, due to which the possibility of purchasing JF-17 has become stronger.

What is the specialty of JF-17 Block-III?
JF-17 Thunder is considered the main strength of Pakistan Air Force. Its new Block-III version is a 4.5 generation multirole fighter, which has been jointly developed by Chengdu Aircraft Corporation and Pakistan Aeronautical Complex. The specialty of this aircraft is its cost, advanced electronic system and balanced combat capability. Its range can exceed 3,400 km and the maximum take-off weight is approximately 13,500 kg. It is considered accurate in both air-to-air and air-to-ground operations.

Anti-ship missiles, laser-guided bombs, modern radar, self-defense system and 23 mm gun make it strong in the category of multirole fighter. Its service ceiling is 50,000 feet, making it effective even in high altitude missions. Low cost and simple maintenance make it a viable solution for air forces with medium budgets.

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The accident of Tejas fighter plane that happened at Dubai Air Show on Friday shocked the entire country. In the presence of thousands of spectators, the indigenous Tejas was performing thrilling stunts in the sky, when suddenly while taking a turn, the aircraft started falling downwards. Within a few seconds, it hit the ground at high speed and there was a huge explosion. High flames were seen rising.

The incident occurred at 2:10 pm local time. People present at the air show were making videos on their mobile phones when this accident happened in front of their eyes. Emergency teams arrived immediately, but it was too late. Indian Air Force also confirmed the crash of Tejas and said that the accident will be investigated and the entire situation will be clarified. After this accident, the Dubai Air Show was stopped for some time.

Indian Air Force pilots reach this position after going through rigorous selection, rigorous training and rigorous medical tests. To fly an advanced fighter aircraft like Tejas, a pilot needs excellent skills, the ability to take quick decisions and extremely strong mental balance.

Salary of Indian Air Force pilot?

Becoming a pilot in the Indian Air Force means a good salary, excellent facilities and a life full of respect. The starting basic pay of a pilot starts from Rs 56,100 and goes up to Rs 1.77 lakh with increasing experience. Apart from this, pilots also get flying allowance, military service pay, technical pay and other allowances. Apart from this, many other facilities are also provided to the pilot.

How to become a pilot in Air Force?

There are many paths to become a pilot in the Indian Air Force. In which NDA, CDS, AFCAT and NCC special entry. There are different age limits and rules for each entry.

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