In what would represent a new step in deepening defense ties following the signing of a mutual defense pact—and a way to reduce its external debt—Pakistan has reportedly proposed the sale of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets to the Royal Saudi Air Force, in a deal worth several billion dollars that would offset various Saudi investments in the country. The news was reported by Reuters, which stated that the governments of both countries are already in talks to explore this possibility, leveraging their existing relationship at a time of financial difficulties for Islamabad and a need for Riyadh to recalibrate its alliances.
Expanding on the details, the outlet consulted several sources who agreed that Islamabad is seeking to swap debt for new JF-17 fighters, although the final value of any potential agreement remains unclear. An initial response cited by military sources pointed to a deal worth around US$4 billion, with an additional US$2 billion to be invested in the acquisition of weapons and other equipment. Such an arrangement would significantly ease pressure on Pakistan’s finances, effectively covering the roughly US$6 billion debt it has owed Saudi Arabia since 2018.
Rumors in this regard have continued to grow when considering statements by retired Air Marshal Aamir Masood, who revealed that Pakistan has already held discussions with as many as six countries to place the Sino-Pakistani-designed aircraft in their respective air forces, including Saudi Arabia itself. He also noted that the aircraft stood out during these talks due to being a combat-proven design that is cost-effective to operate.
This latter point is particularly relevant given that Riyadh has also received an offer from the United States to acquire F-35 stealth fighters manufactured by Lockheed Martin to reinforce its combat fleet. While these aircraft offer superior capabilities, they are also significantly more expensive to acquire—at around US$100 million per unit—and to sustain over time. While it remains unclear which path the Royal Saudi Air Force will ultimately choose, it is worth recalling that Western designs currently dominate its inventory, which includes F-15SA and F-15E fighters, Eurofighter Typhoons, and Tornado IDS aircraft—the latter reportedly being the models Saudi Arabia is looking to replace in order to maintain a range of modern and highly capable options.
Finally, it should be noted that this potential fighter sale would not be the only recent JF-17 export effort driven by Pakistan. The most recent example would be the reported deal with the Libyan National Army, allegedly worth around US$4 billion, despite United Nations sanctions that should prevent any arms sales to the country. In addition, the design is also seeking to secure a place in the ongoing renewal process of the Bangladesh Air Force. Should such deals materialize with similar values, they could further enable Islamabad to make progress in repaying its debts to the International Monetary Fund, to which it owes approximately US$7 billion under its 14th program.
*Images for illustrative purposes only.
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