ISLAMABAD (Agencies): General Ìsmail Güneykaya, Combat Commander of the Turkish Air Force, paid a visit to Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, at his office. The meeting focused on various crucial aspects of mutual interest, particularly bilateral training, the progress of ongoing joint ventures, and the exploration of new opportunities for collaboration within the aviation industry.
During the discussions, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu shared insights into the Pakistan Air Force’s comprehensive modernization strategy, emphasizing the integration of emerging technologies, reinforcement of critical infrastructure, and a thorough restructuring of the training system to effectively address contemporary challenges in air warfare. The Air Chief underscored the enduring religious and historic ties between the two countries, expressing gratitude for the strong strategic partnership. Commending the Turkish Air Force’s participation in Exercise Indus Shield, he reaffirmed his commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations in military-to-military cooperation, strategic alliance, and training. The Air Chief highlighted the active role of PAF pilots in providing training to Turkish aircrew and reiterated PAF’s dedication to offering training and capacity-building support to the Turkish Air Force.
General Ìsmail Güneykaya acknowledged the remarkable progress of the Pakistan Air Force in developing a robust indigenous aviation industry and expressed determination to enhance ties between the two countries. To enhance tactical skills for Turkish aircrew, he expressed keen interest in exploring training opportunities for Turkish Air Force pilots in the prestigious Combat Commanders Course offered at the Air Power Centre of Excellence. Both commanders agreed to further explore areas of cooperation through bilateral and multilateral military exercises, placing a special emphasis on collaboration in technology-based future programs. During the visit, the Combat Commander of the Turkish Air Force toured various installations and technological infrastructure at Air Headquarters in Islamabad, including the PAF’s National ISR and Integrated Air Operations Centre and PAF’s Cyber Command. He also visited the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park, a significant milestone in Pakistan’s aerospace industry, contributing to strategic partnerships and the country’s economic growth.
The visit by the Combat Commander of the Turkish Air Force underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthen their strategic partnership by fostering collaboration and promoting robust relations between their respective Air Forces.