ISLAMABAD: Reuters has confirmed that Pakistan is engaged in discussionswith 13 countries regarding the potential sale of JF-17 Thunder fighterjets, a development that underscores the growing international appeal ofthe jointly developed Pakistan-China aircraft. Three Pakistani sources withknowledge of defence sales revealed that six to eight of these negotiationshave reached advanced stages, encompassing not only JF-17s but alsotraining aircraft, drones, and associated weapons systems. The surge ininterest follows the jets’ demonstrated performance in recent combatscenarios against India, positioning them as a reliable and cost-effectiveoption amid global supply disruptions.
The JF-17 Thunder, priced between $30 million and $40 million per unit,represents a compelling alternative to more expensive Western counterparts,which often exceed $250 million. This affordability, combined with itscombat-proven status from the May 2025 air engagements, has driven demandfrom nations seeking diversified procurement sources. Analysts note thatdisruptions from ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East haveprompted buyers to explore non-traditional suppliers, enhancing Pakistan’sexport prospects significantly.
Among the countries involved are Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Morocco,Ethiopia, Nigeria, and the eastern Libyan administration under KhalifaHaftar. Reuters sources indicated that these discussions extend beyond mereaircraft sales to include broader defence cooperation packages. Forinstance, advanced talks with Bangladesh involve JF-17 Block III variantsalongside MFI-17 Mushshak trainers, Shahpar drones, air defence systems,and Mohafiz armoured vehicles, reflecting deepening strategic ties betweenthe two nations.
Saudi Arabia stands out in the negotiations, with reports suggestingIslamabad is exploring converting approximately $2 billion in existingloans into a JF-17 procurement arrangement. Retired Air Marshal AamirMasood highlighted that such deals could expand further, potentiallyincorporating drones and support infrastructure. The mutual defence pactsigned previously between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia provides a foundationfor these expanded military exchanges, amid Riyadh’s efforts to strengthenregional security partnerships.
Indonesia’s discussions appear particularly promising, with sourcesdescribing them as nearing conclusion for a package that may include over40 JF-17 jets, armed drones, and comprehensive training programs for airforce personnel. A recent meeting between senior defence officials fromboth sides focused on these elements, signalling Jakarta’s intent tomodernise its fleet with affordable yet capable multi-role fighters amidcompeting options from China and the United States.
Sudan is reportedly close to finalising a $1.5 billion agreement that wouldsupply JF-17s along with other weaponry, facilitated in part by regionalintermediaries. Similarly, the Libyan National Army’s earlier $4 billionpact, which included JF-17s and Super Mushshak trainers, sets a precedentfor large-scale exports despite international complexities. These Africanengagements highlight Pakistan’s expanding footprint on the continent.
Ethiopia, Morocco, and Nigeria feature prominently in the remaining talks,drawn by the JF-17’s versatility in air-to-air and air-to-ground roles,powered by reliable engines and equipped with modern avionics. Theaircraft’s Block III configuration offers enhanced radar capabilities andintegration with precision-guided munitions, making it suitable for diverseoperational environments faced by these nations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently affirmed that multiple countries areactively pursuing deals for the JF-17, emphasising the economic benefitsthrough boosted defence production and foreign exchange earnings. DefenceProduction Minister Raza Hayat Harraj echoed this, noting the jet’scompetitive pricing and ongoing discussions without disclosing specificsdue to sensitivity concerns.
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The JF-17 programme, a flagship collaboration between Pakistan AeronauticalComplex and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Corporation, has evolved throughsuccessive blocks, incorporating upgrades that improve performance andsurvivability. Its deployment in real-world scenarios has validated designchoices, increasing buyer confidence compared to untested alternatives.
Experts caution that while momentum is strong, geopolitical factors,including potential objections from major powers and supply chainconstraints for components like engines, could influence outcomes.Beijing’s role in approvals for third-party transfers remains pivotal,given the joint nature of the project.
Overall, these negotiations mark a pivotal moment for Pakistan’s defenceindustry, potentially transforming it into a significant exporter andcontributing to economic stabilisation efforts. The ‘combat-tested’credential has proven instrumental in elevating the JF-17’s market positionglobally.
Source:https://www.reuters.com/world/china/pakistans-combat-tested-jets-boost-weapons-sales-2026-01-20/
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