In a significant development underscoring deepening defence ties, Iraq hassignalled its intent to procure JF-17 Thunder fighter jets from Pakistan ina deal potentially worth billions of dollars. The announcement followshigh-level talks between Pakistan Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal ZaheerAhmed Baber Sidhu and Iraqi Air Force Commander Lieutenant General StaffPilot Mohanad Ghalib Mohammed Radi Al-Asadi during the former’s officialvisit to Baghdad. While formal contract signing is awaited, Iraqi interestin the multi-role JF-17 Thunder and the Super Mushshak trainer aircrafthighlights Pakistan’s growing stature as a reliable exporter of advancedyet affordable military aviation platforms amid regional security dynamics.
*ISLAMABAD:* The meeting in Baghdad marked a pivotal moment in bilateralmilitary relations, with both commanders engaging in detailed discussionson enhancing cooperation. Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhuemphasised Pakistan’s commitment to supporting the Iraqi Air Force throughcomprehensive training programmes and capacity-building initiatives.Lieutenant General Al-Asadi, in turn, praised the professionalism andtechnological prowess of the Pakistan Air Force, expressing keen interestin leveraging its world-class training infrastructure. This exchange buildson earlier engagements, including a September 2025 visit by the Iraqicommander to Islamabad, where similar themes of joint exercises andinteroperability were explored.
The JF-17 Thunder, a jointly developed fourth-generation multi-role fighterby Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Corporation,stands at the forefront of Pakistan’s defence exports. Priced affordably atapproximately $25-30 million per unit for basic configurations, theaircraft offers advanced capabilities including AESA radar in later blocks,beyond-visual-range missiles and precision strike options. Its operationalcost remains low, around $5,000 per flight hour, making it an attractivealternative to more expensive Western counterparts like the F-16 or Rafale.Countries such as Azerbaijan, Myanmar and Nigeria have already integratedthe JF-17 into their fleets, with ongoing interest from others reflectingits proven reliability in diverse operational environments.
Iraq’s interest extends beyond the JF-17 to include the Super Mushshaktrainer aircraft, a lightweight, single-engine turboprop designed forprimary pilot training, aerobatics and instrument flying. The platform, anupgraded variant of the Mushshak series, features a modern digital cockpitand enhanced performance. Pakistan has successfully exported Super Mushshakto several nations, including a previous delivery of 12 units to Iraqvalued at around $33 million, which included spares and maintenancesupport. This prior transaction demonstrates established trust, paving theway for expanded procurement that could encompass additional trainersalongside fighters.
A potential multi-billion-dollar deal would represent one of Pakistan’slargest defence exports in recent years, boosting the national economy andreinforcing strategic partnerships in the Middle East. Estimates suggestthat acquiring a squadron of JF-17s, along with associated weapons,simulators, spares and training packages, could easily exceed $1 billion,depending on the scale and configuration. Such an agreement would alsoinclude provisions for joint training, allowing Iraqi pilots to benefitfrom Pakistan’s extensive experience in operating and maintaining theaircraft. The emphasis on capacity building aligns with Iraq’s efforts tomodernise its air force following years of conflict and reconstruction.
The timing of these discussions coincides with broader regional trends indefence acquisitions, where nations seek cost-effective solutions amidbudgetary constraints and shifting geopolitical priorities. Pakistan’sdefence diplomacy has gained momentum, with the JF-17 emerging as a keyinstrument in fostering ties with friendly countries. The aircraft’sversatility in air-to-air and air-to-ground roles, combined with itsnon-Western origin that avoids stringent end-user restrictions, positionsit favourably against competitors. Observers note that Iraq’s move couldsignal a wider wave of interest, particularly as Pakistan continues toenhance the platform through indigenous upgrades.
Critics and analysts point to the strategic implications of such deals,including strengthened interoperability between the two air forces throughshared platforms and joint exercises. Pakistan’s offer of full-spectrumsupport, from pilot training to technical sustainment, ensures long-termoperational readiness for recipient nations. The Iraqi side’s appreciationfor Pakistan’s role in promoting regional stability further underscores themutual benefits, fostering a partnership rooted in historical, cultural andreligious affinities between the two Muslim-majority countries.
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As negotiations progress, the proposed acquisition promises to elevatebilateral military cooperation to new heights. The integration of JF-17fighters and Super Mushshak trainers would modernise Iraq’s aircapabilities while providing Pakistan with substantial economic gains andenhanced geopolitical influence. This evolving collaboration reflects apragmatic approach to defence modernisation, prioritising affordability,reliability and sustained partnership in an increasingly complex securitylandscape.
Source:https://tribune.com.pk/story/2586411/iraq-eyes-jf-17-fighter-jets-as-pakistani-air-chief-visits-baghdad
Tags:Iraq, Pakistan, JF-17, Air Force.
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