Islamabad — A high-level Iraqi Air Force delegation led by Lieutenant General Staff Pilot Mohanad Ghalib Mohammed Radi Al-Asadi, Commander of the Iraqi Air Force, met Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force (PAF), at Air Headquarters. The visit aimed to expand defence cooperation with focus on training, capacity building, and aviation advancements.
On arrival, a smartly turned-out PAF contingent presented a Guard of Honour to the Iraqi Commander.
During the meeting, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu highlighted the historic and religious ties between Pakistan and Iraq. He said these shared bonds are the foundation of their lasting friendship. The Air Chief reaffirmed PAF’s commitment to support the Iraqi Air Force in pilot training and capacity development. Both leaders agreed on holding joint training programs and exercises to improve operational cooperation.
Lieutenant General Al-Asadi thanked PAF for the warm reception. He praised its transformation into a professional and technologically advanced air force. He explained Iraq’s plan to modernize its entire training system, from basic flying to advanced tactical and operational stages. The Iraqi Commander sought PAF’s help in creating a new training framework.
The Iraqi Air Force delegation also expressed interest in pilot exchange postings. He said Iraqi aviators highly value learning from PAF’s combat-tested professionals. At the National Aerospace Science & Technology Park, he admired Pakistan’s model of integrating academia, industry, and military needs. He said Iraq also aims to build a similar ecosystem for its air force.
Later, the delegation visited the National ISR & Integrated Air Operations Centre and PAF Cyber Command. They received briefings on PAF’s operational readiness, cyber defence strategies, and advanced technology programs.
The Iraqi Air Force delegation’s visit to PAF Headquarters marked an important step in strengthening military cooperation. It reflects the resolve of both nations to work together in aviation, training, and defence technology while building long-term strategic ties.
