ISLAMABAD: Recent reports of advanced negotiations between Pakistan andSaudi Arabia for the acquisition of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets haveunderscored the growing international appeal of Pakistan’s indigenousdefence capabilities. Sources indicate discussions to convert approximatelytwo billion dollars in Saudi loans into a procurement package potentiallyvalued at four billion dollars, including aircraft, weapons systems, andsupport infrastructure. This development reflects strengthening strategicpartnerships and highlights the JF-17’s combat-proven reliability andcost-effectiveness.
The talks follow the signing of a mutual defence pact in September 2025,which commits both nations to treat aggression against one as an attack onboth. This framework has facilitated deeper military cooperation, includingjoint exercises and technology sharing. Pakistan’s Air Chief has recentlyengaged with Saudi counterparts on bilateral defence collaboration,signalling intent to operationalise the agreement through tangibleacquisitions.
An Indian defence portal, IDRW, has dismissed the prospects of such a deal,arguing that Saudi Arabia’s Western-oriented air force is unlikely toinduct non-Western platforms. It further claims the JF-17’s lighter classand Russian-origin RD-93 engine render it unsuitable for replacing heavierstrike aircraft like the Panavia Tornado. These assertions appear rooted infrustration over the contrasting export trajectories of competing platforms.
In contrast, the JF-17 has secured orders from multiple nations, includingMyanmar, Nigeria, and Azerbaijan, with over 150 units produced andoperational. Its performance in real-world operations, includingdeployments during regional conflicts, has enhanced its marketability.Retired Pakistani air marshals note ongoing negotiations with six countriesfor JF-17 variants and associated systems, emphasising its combat testingand affordability as key advantages.
Meanwhile, India’s Tejas light combat aircraft has yet to secure any exportorders despite decades of development. Delays in domestic deliveries,attributed to engine supply issues and production challenges, have hamperedits international prospects. A recent crash at an international airshowfurther dampened enthusiasm among potential buyers, reinforcing perceptionsof reliability concerns.
The JF-17’s propulsion by the Klimov RD-93 engine, with upgrades to theRD-93MA variant for Block III aircraft, demonstrates sustained Russiansupport despite geopolitical pressures. This reliability contrasts withreports of production bottlenecks affecting rival programmes. SaudiArabia’s interest aligns with its diversification of defence sources amidevolving regional security dynamics.
Pakistan’s defence exports have surged, with recent deals includingsignificant arms packages to Libya. The potential Saudi acquisition wouldmark a milestone, validating the JF-17 as a viable alternative to moreexpensive Western fighters. Analysts view this as evidence of Pakistan’srising stature in global defence markets.
The deepening Pakistan-Saudi strategic ties extend beyond procurement toencompass training, intelligence sharing, and joint deterrence. Historicalcooperation, including Pakistani advisory deployments, has evolved into acomprehensive partnership, providing mutual benefits in an uncertaingeopolitical landscape.
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Critics from Indian quarters, portraying the deal as improbable, overlookthe pragmatic considerations driving Riyadh’s decisions. Saudi Arabiamaintains a predominantly Western fleet but seeks complementarycapabilities to enhance operational flexibility and reduce dependency risks.
This prospective deal not only bolsters Pakistan’s economy through exportrevenue but also reinforces bilateral solidarity. As negotiations progress,the JF-17’s success story continues to affirm Pakistan’s advancements inaerospace technology and its ability to forge enduring alliances.
Source:https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/pakistan-saudi-talks-jf-17-jets-for-loans-deal-sources-say-2026-01-07/
Tags: Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, JF-17 Thunder, Tejas, Royal Saudi Air Force
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