ISLAMABAD: Strong interest has been shown in Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder fighter jet at the World Defense Exhibition in Riyadh, Pakistan’s state broadcaster reported.
The aircraft was promoted to international buyers at one of the region’s largest defense industry events.
Defense officials, manufacturers, and military delegations from dozens of countries were brought together at the exhibition. A platform was provided for arms exporters to display equipment and seek new contracts. The event was held amid rising global and regional security concerns.
Riyadh has been positioned by Saudi Arabia as a regional hub for defense and aerospace exhibitions. Such events have been used to build partnerships and attract foreign manufacturers under broader economic diversification efforts.
A mutual defense pact was signed by Islamabad and Riyadh last year. Another defense agreement involving Saudi Arabia and Turkiye has reportedly been discussed. Details have not been made public.
At the exhibition, strong interest was attracted by the Pakistan Air Force’s JF-17 Thunder. Attention was drawn despite the presence of fighter jets from the United States, Saudi Arabia, and other countries, Pakistan Television reported.
Participation by Islamabad has taken place alongside talks with at least 13 countries. Deals with six to eight countries are said to be at an advanced stage. The discussions involve JF-17 jets developed with China, as well as training aircraft, drones, and weapons systems, according to media reports.
Interest in the JF-17 has been strengthened by its operational exposure after the Pakistan-India military confrontation in May 2025. Combat credibility has been cited by Pakistani officials and defense analysts.
The JF-17 has been presented by Islamabad as a cost-effective multirole combat aircraft. It has been marketed as an alternative to high-end Western fighter jets. The aircraft is already in service with several foreign air forces. It remains central to Pakistan’s defense export strategy.
Talks have been held with Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Morocco, Ethiopia, and Nigeria. Engagements have also included eastern Libya under Khalifa Haftar. Discussions with Bangladesh and Iraq have been publicly acknowledged by Pakistan’s military. Further details have not been disclosed.
Most potential buyers are Muslim-majority countries. Many are located in the Middle East, where Pakistan has long played a security role.
Separately, a meeting was held between Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif and his Saudi counterpart Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on the sidelines of the event.
Also Read: Pakistan JF-17 fighter jet in demand globally, The Telegraph
Congratulations were extended by Asif to the Saudi leadership on the organization of the World Defense Show, Radio Pakistan reported.
The event was described as an important milestone for promoting regional defense cooperation.
