ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is on the verge of finalising a significant $1.5billion arms agreement with Sudan, marking a pivotal advancement in itsdefence export strategy. Sources indicate that the deal encompassesadvanced weaponry, including potential JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, unmannedcombat aerial vehicles, and multiple launch rocket systems, aimed atstrengthening Sudan’s armed forces in their protracted conflict with theRapid Support Forces.
The agreement, described by a retired Pakistani air marshal as a “donedeal”, highlights Islamabad’s growing prominence in the global arms market.It comes at a critical juncture for Sudan, where the army seeks to reclaimair superiority lost to paramilitary drone operations over the past two anda half years of intense fighting.
Details emerging from informed circles suggest the package includesKarakoram-8 light attack jets and Super Mushshak trainers as corecomponents. The possible inclusion of JF-17 fighters, co-developed withChina, underscores the aircraft’s appeal as a cost-effective multiroleplatform, battle-tested and increasingly sought by nations avoiding Westernsupply chains.
Funding for the transaction remains undisclosed, though speculation pointsto potential Saudi Arabian involvement. Riyadh’s interest aligns withbroader Gulf support for regimes countering influences perceived asadversarial, potentially linking this deal to ongoing Pakistan-Saudidefence dialogues.
This development follows Pakistan’s recent multi-billion dollar arms saleto Libya’s eastern forces, demonstrating a surge in export momentum. TheJF-17 has already secured orders from Azerbaijan, Nigeria, and Myanmar,with production rates at the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex ramping up tomeet rising demand.
Sudan’s civil war, now in its third year, has triggered the world’s worsthumanitarian crisis, displacing millions and drawing complex foreigninterventions. Pakistani supplies could shift battlefield dynamics byenhancing the army’s capabilities in air defence and precision strikesagainst RSF positions.
Analysts note that such exports provide Pakistan with vital foreignexchange amid economic challenges, including reliance on InternationalMonetary Fund programmes. The defence industry is viewed as a catalyst forlong-term stability, reducing dependence on external bailouts.
Geopolitical implications extend beyond bilateral ties, as the dealnavigates regional rivalries involving the United Arab Emirates, accused byKhartoum of arming the RSF, a claim denied by Abu Dhabi. Egypt and SaudiArabia’s involvement in peace efforts adds layers to the strategic calculus.
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Pakistan’s military and defence ministry have not commented officially, norhas Sudan’s army spokesman responded to inquiries. The absence ofconfirmation maintains suspense around final terms, delivery schedules, andexact weapon configurations.
As negotiations conclude, this accord reinforces Pakistan’s position as anemerging arms exporter, capitalising on affordable, reliable systems provenin diverse operational environments, while addressing Sudan’s urgentmilitary requirements in a volatile theatre.
Source:https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/pakistan-nears-15-billion-deal-supply-weapons-jets-sudan-sources-say-2026-01-09/
Tags: Pakistan, Sudan, JF-17 Thunder, Rapid Support Forces
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