Turkish Defence Minister Yaşar Güler praised the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) for its exemplary role during the recent conflict with India, highlighting the force’s operational excellence and leadership. The meeting with PAF Chief Air Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu focused on enhancing defence cooperation and joint military development between Pakistan and Turkiye.
High-Level Meeting in Islamabad
Güler led a senior delegation to Air Headquarters in Islamabad, where both sides discussed regional security shifts, joint defence projects, and emerging threats in modern warfare. The visit underscores the close military ties and shared strategic vision of the two nations.
Strengthening Strategic Ties
Air Chief Marshal Sidhu reaffirmed the PAF’s commitment to deepening ties with Turkiye in areas such as advanced training and aerospace technologies. He highlighted the importance of long-standing brotherly relations and emphasized shared defence priorities.
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To fast-track collaboration, both sides agreed to set up joint working groups. These teams will focus on enhancing cooperation in emerging fields, including drone warfare, avionics, and disruptive technologies.
Industry-to-Industry Collaboration
Güler emphasized Turkiye’s intention to expand industry-to-industry partnerships. He called for greater joint ventures in cutting-edge defence manufacturing, especially in unmanned aerial systems and artificial intelligence-driven warfare systems.
He also appreciated the PAF’s active role in the pilot exchange programme. According to Güler, this initiative has boosted mutual understanding and skill development among both nations’ air forces.
Commitment to Joint Exercises
Both dignitaries pledged to increase joint air exercises, including multilateral engagements. They agreed to finalize plans for more integrated training modules, with a focus on aerial combat readiness and real-time operational coordination.
Regional Acknowledgment of PAF
A day earlier, China’s Air Force Chief Lt General Wang Gang also praised the PAF’s performance during the conflict. He described the PAF’s actions as precise, measured, and strategically sound under Sidhu’s leadership. Gang called it a textbook example of discipline and professionalism against unprovoked aggression.
The Turkish visit follows growing recognition of PAF’s regional role and marks a deepening of Pakistan-Turkiye military relations.
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