ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s defence sector has achieved significant recognitionon the global stage as State Minister Talal Chaudhry emphasized theindustry’s advancements during the ongoing World Defense Show in Riyadh. Hestated that Pakistan has developed modern technology and equipment meetinginternational standards, attracting keen interest from multiple countriesthat have expressed willingness for new agreements. This developmentunderscores Pakistan’s growing capabilities in manufacturing high-qualitydefence products amid rising global demand for reliable and cost-effectivesystems.
The World Defense Show, held in Riyadh from February 8 to 12, serves as apremier platform for defence industries worldwide. Pakistan’s participationshowcases a range of domestically produced systems, including combatdrones, fighter jets, and precision weapons. The event, organized by SaudiArabia’s General Authority for Military Industries, brings together over700 exhibitors and official delegations, highlighting innovation,localization, and strategic partnerships in the defence sector.
Pakistan’s defence exports have surged in recent years, driven bycombat-proven platforms like the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet, co-developedwith China. Reports indicate negotiations with at least 13 countries, withsix to eight in advanced stages for deals involving JF-17s, drones, traineraircraft, and missiles. This momentum follows successful sales to nationssuch as Azerbaijan, Myanmar, and Nigeria, positioning Pakistan as anemerging exporter in the global arms market.
State Minister Talal Chaudhry’s remarks at the Riyadh event reflectconfidence in Pakistan’s self-reliance efforts. He noted that the country’sdefence industry has invested in research and development to produceequipment aligned with contemporary warfare requirements. Several countrieshave shown interest in Pakistani offerings, leading to fresh contracts thatpromise to boost foreign exchange earnings and strengthen industrialcapacity.
Recent bilateral ties with Saudi Arabia have further accelerated thesegains. The Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement signed in September 2025 haspaved the way for deeper cooperation, including technology transfer andjoint production. Saudi Arabia’s interest in platforms like the JF-17,potentially worth billions, aligns with Riyadh’s Vision 2030 goal oflocalizing over 50 percent of military spending through partnerships.
Pakistan’s defence industry benefits from a robust ecosystem involvingentities like Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and Global Industrial & DefenceSolutions. Products such as the Shahpar-III combat drone, capable ofhigh-altitude operations with heavy payloads, have drawn attention fromGulf states. These systems demonstrate Pakistan’s ability to deliveradvanced solutions at competitive prices, appealing to nations seekingdiversified suppliers.
The surge in export inquiries comes amid global supply chain disruptionsand regional security dynamics. Pakistan’s equipment, often described ascombat-tested through operational use, offers reliability in diverseenvironments. Discussions with countries including Sudan, Libya, Indonesia,Morocco, Ethiopia, and Nigeria highlight broadening market access, withpotential deals valued in billions of dollars.
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Experts attribute this progress to strategic policies promoting indigenousproduction and international collaborations. Pakistan’s defence exports notonly generate revenue but also enhance diplomatic ties, particularly withMuslim-majority nations. The Riyadh show provides an ideal venue toformalize these interests into concrete agreements, reinforcing Pakistan’srole in regional security architecture.
While challenges remain, including technology upgrades and fundingconstraints, the positive response at international forums signals apromising trajectory. State Minister Chaudhry’s assertion that new dealshave been secured reflects tangible outcomes from sustained efforts tomodernize the sector. This positions Pakistan to capitalize on growingdemand for affordable, high-performance defence equipment worldwide.
The implications extend beyond economics, contributing to strategicautonomy and foreign reserves buildup. As Pakistan expands its defencefootprint, continued focus on quality assurance and innovation will beessential to sustain this upward trend in global markets.
Source:https://www.reuters.com/world/china/pakistans-combat-tested-jets-boost-weapons-sales-2026-01-20
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