ISLAMABAD: The 17-member Saudi defence delegation returned home on Wednesday after completing its three-day exploratory trip to Pakistan for identifying areas of cooperation.

The team led by Deputy Defence Minister Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz al Saud visited Pakistan after the two countries agreed on enhanced defence ties during a trip by Foreign Minister Saud al Faisal to Islamabad.

The two countries are describing the warming of bilateral ties as the beginning of a ‘new era in the strategic partnership’.

On the last day of the three-day visit, the delegation visited Air Defence Command of Pakistan Air Force.

According to a PAF source, the Saudi delegation has expressed interest in Pakistan’s indigenously produced command and control system.

Saudis also want to buy Super Mushshak training aircraft and JF-17 Thunder fighter jets.

The delegation had earlier visited General Headquarters in Rawalpindi and defence industries in Kamra and Wah.

The trip is expected to be followed by expert-level discussions on areas that Riyadh would like to benefit from Pakistan’s expertise. In addition to radars and aircraft, the Saudis are keen on training and getting Pakistani experts in their services.