"Battle-tested": Surge in Pakistan’s Arms Exports Following May Conflict with India
In the wake of a four-day conflict with India last May, Pakistan not only showcased the effectiveness of Chinese military equipment but also highlighted its own domestically manufactured arms, such as the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet, the Al-Khalid main battle tank, and the Fatah series guided multiple launch rocket system (G-MLRS). This event marked a significant moment for Pakistan's defense capabilities on an international stage.
Specifically, the performance of the JF-17 during the May conflict, alongside its previous display in the 2019 skirmish with India, confirmed its prowess in combat situations. Notably, during last year's hostilities, the JF-17 was credited with targeting and destroying India’s advanced S-400 surface-to-air missile defense system that was stationed at Adampur. Additionally, the fighter jet made a remarkable impression at the Dubai Airshow, further solidifying its reputation.
Recently, the defense minister indicated that the achievements of Pakistan's arms industry could significantly enhance the nation's economic prospects.
"Our aircraft have undergone rigorous testing, and the overwhelming number of orders we’re receiving suggests that in six months, Pakistan might no longer require assistance from the International Monetary Fund," stated Khawaja Asif during an interview with Geo News.
Here’s a concise timeline of arms agreements that Pakistan has either finalized or is currently negotiating with allied nations since May 2025:
January 10, 2026: Iraqi Air Chief Shows Enthusiasm for JF-17
On January 10, during a visit by Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu to Iraq, Lt Gen Staff Pilot Mohanad Ghalib Mohammed Radi Al-Asadi, the Commander of the Iraqi Air Force, commended the professionalism displayed by the PAF during the May conflict. He expressed a strong interest in acquiring the battle-tested JF-17 jets. According to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lt Gen Al-Asadi also conveyed his desire to benefit from Pakistan's top-tier training programs and expressed particular interest in both the JF-17 Thunder fighter jets and Super Mushshak trainer aircraft.
January 7: Saudi Arabia Engages in Discussions for Jet-Loan Arrangement
Recent reports indicate that negotiations are underway between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia aimed at converting approximately $2 billion of Saudi loans into a deal for JF-17 fighter jets. This development signifies a deepening of military cooperation, following the mutual defense agreement signed by the two countries last year. According to one source involved in the discussions, the talks specifically focus on the JF-17 Thunder jets, with the entire deal valued at around $4 billion, which includes an additional $2 billion earmarked for supplementary equipment beyond the loan conversion.
January 6: Bangladesh Signals Interest in Purchasing JF-17s
Discussions between the air chiefs of Pakistan and Bangladesh recently took place regarding the potential acquisition of JF-17 Thunder aircraft. The ISPR reported that during these conversations, Air Chief Marshal Sidhu informed his Bangladeshi counterpart about recent advancements in the PAF and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to supporting the Bangladesh Air Force. This support would encompass a comprehensive training framework, ranging from basic to advanced flying skills and specialized courses at PAF institutions. Moreover, he assured a swift delivery of Super Mushak trainer aircraft, along with a fully integrated training and long-term support system.
December 22, 2025: Finalization of Arms Deal with Libya
Last month, Pakistan sealed a multi-billion-dollar agreement to supply conventional military equipment to the Libyan army, thus entering an elite group of nations that export conventional arms. A document related to this deal, which was reviewed by Reuters before its finalization, detailed the purchase of several JF-17 fighter jets and Super Mushak trainer aircraft. A Pakistani official disclosed that the agreement encompassed the sale of equipment across land, sea, and air domains over a span of two-and-a-half years, hinting at the possibility of including JF-17 fighter jets in this arrangement.
