Islamabad, 11 Oct 2023:Pakistan and Qatar have reached a consensus to fortify existing military relationships, with a concentrated focus on advancing tactical training, embracing emerging technologies, and bolstering operational competencies, particularly in electronic warfare and cyber technology. This understanding was achieved during a meeting between Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces Lieutenant General (Pilot) Salem Hamad Eqail Al-Nabet on Wednesday in Islamabad, as per the press release from MOIB.

During the meeting, Air Chief Marshal Sidhu detailed aspects of his vision regarding the modernization drive of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), intending to enhance current operational capability required in contemporary hybrid warfare, notably in Artificial Intelligence, Niche technologies, Cyber, and Space domains. Furthermore, he discussed various ongoing projects of the PAF’s operational construct, force goals, and plans for the force structure, emphasizing consideration for future warfare.

Sidhu acknowledged the participation of the Qatar Air Force contingent in Exercise Indus Shield at an operational air base of PAF and highlighted the historic and unparalleled brotherly relations both countries share. He reiterated his commitment to further augment the existing bilateral ties in military-to-military cooperation and training domains.

In response, the Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces commended the professionalism of Pakistan Air Force personnel and the remarkable progress made by PAF over the years, particularly through indigenization. He also lauded the dynamic efforts of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu in navigating PAF towards modernization.

Moreover, the military leaders explored possibilities for joint military exercises and exchange programs, aimed at facilitating the exchange of expertise, enhancing interoperability, and fostering closer ties between the Air Forces of both nations.