Islamabad: The South African Air Force (SAAF) has formally sought the Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) expertise to upgrade its training programs and maintain its C-130 transport aircraft fleet.
The move follows a high-level meeting in Islamabad between SAAF Chief Lt Gen Wiseman Simo Mbambo and PAF Chief Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu. The discussions centered on strengthening bilateral defense ties and enhancing mutual cooperation in aviation.
Under the new agreement, both air forces will work together to modernize training systems, improve technical support, and boost operational readiness. PAF’s extensive experience in maintaining and operating C-130 aircraft is seen as a valuable asset for SAAF, which is looking to revitalize its aging fleet.
Officials highlighted the strong relationship between the two countries, emphasizing shared goals of capacity building, knowledge exchange, and regional security cooperation.
Defense analysts see this partnership as a strategic step that could open doors for broader military collaboration between Pakistan and South Africa, while showcasing Pakistan’s growing role in international defense training and support services.
