ISLAMABAD – Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu Chief of Air Staff of the Pakistan Air Force met Lieutenant General Staff Pilot Mohanad Ghalib Mohammed Radi Al-Asadi, Commander of the Iraqi Air Force, in Iraq.
Air Chief was received with a full ceremonial guard of honour at the Iraqi Air Force Headquarters, a striking symbol of the respect and camaraderie between the two nations’ air forces. High-level discussions centered on deepening bilateral military ties, with a strong focus on joint training, capacity building, and operational coordination.
Citing centuries-old religious, cultural, and historical connections between Islamabad and Baghdad, Air Chief Sidhu reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Iraqi Air Force in training and enhancing operational capabilities.
Both air force leaders agreed on expanding joint exercises and collaborative training initiatives to strengthen interoperability, a move that experts say could redefine regional defense partnerships.
Iraqi Air Chief hailed PAF’s professionalism and cutting-edge technological advancements, expressing a keen interest in Pakistan’s world-class training programs. He also showed strong interest in acquiring JF-17 Thunder fighter jets and Super Mushshak trainer aircraft, while appreciating Pakistan’s pivotal role in maintaining regional stability.
The visit underscored a shared determination to elevate defense collaboration and professional ties to new heights, signaling a promising chapter in Pakistan-Iraq military relations.
Why does Saudi Arabia need JF-17 while having F-15s, and Typhoon jets?
