Pakistan’s defence industry is attracting unprecedented global attention following last year’s air conflict with India, where its jets, drones, and missiles earned the coveted “combat-tested” label. The success of the JF-17 fighter jets and supporting aircraft has sparked interest from multiple countries in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, keen to diversify their defence suppliers amid global supply chain disruptions.
Rising demand and prospective buyers:
Islamabad has held talks with 13 countries, including Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Indonesia, Morocco, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Libya’s eastern government led by Khalifa Haftar. While some negotiations are advanced, defence sources caution that deals are still tentative and could be influenced by international pressures or embargoes. Bangladesh appears to be the most promising client, considering a broad defence cooperation package covering JF-17 Block III jets, training aircraft, drones, air defence systems, and armoured vehicles.
Competitive pricing and appeal:
Pakistan’s jets and drones offer a significant cost advantage over U.S. and European alternatives. A JF-17 costs approximately $30–40 million, less than a third of Western equivalents, making it attractive for countries seeking affordable, combat-ready platforms. Analysts note that Pakistan’s ability to combine equipment sales with training, joint exercises, and advisory support enhances its appeal to “fragile” or rapidly expanding defence forces, particularly in Africa and the Middle East.
Production and supply chain challenges:
Scaling production of the JF-17 remains a key hurdle. Current annual output is around 20 aircraft, though upgrades and expansions at Pakistan’s main factory could double that by 2027. Training aircraft and drones are also in high demand, with private sector firms like Sysverve Aerospace in Rawalpindi playing a growing role in drone production and supply. Backing from China is expected to help Pakistan overcome production and technological hurdles.
Geopolitical constraints:
While Pakistan is emerging as a flexible, mid-tier defence provider, geopolitical factors complicate potential deals. Sales to Sudan and Libya are sensitive due to UN arms embargoes, and Pakistan must balance its alliances in the Middle East, particularly between Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Coordination with China, the co-producer of JF-17 jets, is also critical, as Beijing could block sales to certain clients.
Analysis:
Pakistan’s rise as a cost-effective, combat-tested defence supplier highlights a shift in global arms markets, where mid-tier producers are gaining prominence amid Western supply chain disruptions and escalating regional conflicts. Its competitive pricing, operational experience, and capacity to provide integrated support make it attractive to countries seeking quick, affordable military solutions. However, translating interest into signed deals will require careful navigation of international embargoes, Chinese oversight, and regional political dynamics. If Islamabad successfully balances these factors while expanding production, it could establish itself as a key player in the Middle East and Africa, leveraging both its military credibility and strategic partnerships.
With information from Reuters.
