The Diplomat – Asia Defense

Pakistan Eyes Multi-Billion Dollar JF-17 Export Boom Amid Global Interest

Pakistan is actively negotiating JF‑17 Thunder sales with multiple countries, including Bangladesh, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Sudan, Libya and Azerbaijan. The deals on the table range from a $1 billion Indonesian purchase of 40 jets to a potential $4 billion Saudi package that could also include drones and support systems, pushing the total pipeline above $20 billion. The fighter’s low unit cost of $25‑30 million and recent combat performance have boosted its appeal as an affordable, modern alternative to Western aircraft. Success could transform Pakistan’s defence sector and help the government exit its IMF programme.