Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are reportedly negotiating to convert Saudi Arabia’s debt into JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. The talks, reported by Reuters, involve a Saudi loan of approximately two billion dollars being transformed into a defense deal instead of cash repayment.
Sources indicate that Pakistan may supply JF-17 Thunder jets equivalent to the loan’s value, while the remaining two billion dollars could be spent on other defense equipment and related systems. This arrangement could bring the total defense package to around four billion dollars.
Negotiations Focus on Defense Strengthening and Strategic Cooperation
According to defense experts, the discussions follow a bilateral defense agreement reached last year, highlighting growing military and strategic cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The potential deal emerges at a time when Pakistan is facing financial pressures, while Saudi Arabia is reorganizing its regional defense partnerships.
The negotiation centers primarily on supplying JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. Retired air marshals and defense analysts note that the aircraft have been operationally deployed in combat situations, increasing global demand. Pakistan is reportedly in talks with multiple countries for supplying JF-17s and modern defense systems, including Saudi Arabia.
Sources emphasize that official confirmation of the negotiations has not yet been released, but the talks reflect Pakistan’s strategy to use its defense industry to boost economic growth and expand defense exports.
Background on Pakistan’s Defense Exports and JF-17 Deployment
Pakistan has made significant progress in defense exports in recent months. Previously, the country delivered JF-17 fighter jets to Nigeria, and is discussing potential deals with Azerbaijan and Bangladesh. Analysts suggest that such deals reinforce Pakistan’s position in global defense markets and enhance its strategic partnerships.
The JF-17 Thunder, jointly developed with China, is considered a cost-effective multirole fighter and has drawn interest from several countries looking to modernize their air forces.
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