Bangladesh Air Chief Visits Pakistan First Time Since 1971, Sparks India's Concern

• Bangladesh Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmud Khan is on a 6-day official visit to Pakistan for arms procurement, a first since 1971.
• The visit aims to boost military cooperation and gain experience for Bangladesh's air force, accompanied by a 6-member delegation.
• Bangladesh plans to acquire Chinese J-10C jets, Italian Eurofighter Typhoons, and Turkish T129 ATAK helicopters under 'Forces Goal 2030'.
• This visit follows increased defense ties between Bangladesh and Pakistan since January 2025, including multiple high-level military exchanges.
• India views this growing military alignment and Bangladesh's modernization efforts with concern amidst strained diplomatic relations.

Why It Matters: Bangladesh's Air Chief's historic visit to Pakistan for arms deals raises India's strategic concerns.