Pakistan to Supply 12 Super Mushshak Trainer Aircraft to Zimbabwe in Multi-Million Dollar Deal

Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) in Kamra has agreed to supply 12 Super Mushshak trainer aircraft to Zimbabwe in a multi-million dollar deal signed on May 1, 2024. The agreement was reached during the 2022 International Defence and Exhibition Seminar (IDEAS) in Karachi, where a high-powered Zimbabwean military delegation led by Air Vice Marshall Biltim Chingono acquired modern aircraft and armaments.

The Super Mushshak is a lightweight, robust, and easy-to-maintain training aircraft developed by PAC to meet US FAR 23 certification standards. It features a single engine and fixed, non-retractable, tricycle landing gear. Zimbabwe joins other African nations, including Nigeria, in procuring the Super Mushshak to instruct its pilots.

Zimbabwe's acquisition of the Super Mushshak aircraft comes as part of its efforts to replace its aging and worn-out fleet of trainer and combat aircraft. Due to Western-imposed sanctions, the country has turned to countries like Pakistan and China to source its military equipment. The Zimbabwe Air Force currently operates a modest fleet of fast jets, including Chengdu F-7NII and FT-7N fighter aircraft and Hongdu K-8E jet trainers.

Why this matters: The deal between Pakistan and Zimbabwe highlights the growing defense cooperation between the two countries and Pakistan's expanding role as a supplier of military equipment to African nations. It also underscores Zimbabwe's need to modernize its air force capabilities in the face of Western sanctions.

Speaking about the deal, a senior PAC official stated, "We are pleased to partner with Zimbabwe in providing them with the Super Mushshak trainer aircraft. This agreement reflects the strong ties between our two nations and our commitment to supporting Zimbabwe's defense needs." The Zimbabwe Air Force has also sought technical assistance from the Nigerian Air Force, which operates similar aircraft, to enhance its air capabilities and ensure smooth integration of the new trainers into its fleet.

Key Takeaways

• Pakistan to supply 12 Super Mushshak trainer aircraft to Zimbabwe in $M deal.
• Zimbabwe acquires Super Mushshak to replace aging fleet, amid Western sanctions.
• Deal reflects growing defense cooperation between Pakistan and Zimbabwe.
• Zimbabwe seeks technical assistance from Nigeria on operating similar aircraft.
• Super Mushshak is a lightweight, robust, and easy-to-maintain training aircraft.