Pakistan’s defence manufacturing sector is experiencing a surge in international interest after its jets, drones, and missiles earned the coveted “combat tested” designation during last year’s conflict with India, according to Reuters. The developments have positioned Pakistan as a growing supplier of mid-tier defence equipment, particularly for countries seeking alternatives amid global supply chain disruptions.
Islamabad has reportedly held negotiations with 13 countries, with six to eight discussions considered to be in advanced stages, involving sales of JF-17 fighter jets co-produced with China, training aircraft, drones, and various weapons systems, sources familiar with the talks told Reuters. While Pakistan’s military and defence ministry have not disclosed specifics, Defence Production Minister Raza Hayat Harraj confirmed that several countries have expressed interest in the nation’s military hardware.
Analysts note that the appeal of Pakistan’s equipment stems from both its recent battlefield validation and cost advantages. The JF-17, priced at approximately $30 million to $40 million per aircraft, is significantly less expensive than comparable Western-made alternatives, which can cost over three times as much. “These talks are taking place (but) they can fall through due to international pressures,” Harraj said, describing negotiations as “guarded secrets” and emphasizing interest in air force equipment, ammunition, and training packages.
Among the countries reportedly engaged in discussions are Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Morocco, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and the Libyan government led by Khalifa Haftar. Publicly acknowledged talks also include Bangladesh and Iraq. Sources familiar with negotiations told Reuters that the most advanced discussions involve a broad defence cooperation package with Bangladesh, including JF-17 Block III multi-role fighter jets, MFI-17 Mushshak training aircraft, Shahpar reconnaissance and attack drones, air defence systems, and Mohafiz armoured vehicles.
A key challenge for Pakistan will be scaling production to meet potential demand. Currently, the country produces roughly 20 JF-17 aircraft annually, but officials and analysts anticipate that upgrades and expansions at the main facility could potentially double output by the end of 2027. Partnerships with private sector firms specializing in drones and other defence systems are also expected to accelerate capacity. At Sysverve Aerospace in Rawalpindi, workers manufacture hundreds of reconnaissance and kamikaze drones each year, primarily for the military, demonstrating the growing role of private industry in defence production.
While the growing interest in Pakistani defence products presents opportunities, geopolitical constraints remain. Some potential buyers, including Sudan and Libya, are subject to U.N. arms embargoes, which could complicate deals. Analysts also note that China, a key partner in JF-17 production, could have a say in sales to certain countries. “Pakistan is becoming more relevant as a flexible, mid-tier provider of defence capacity,” said Andreas Krieg, a lecturer in security studies at King’s College London. “It can train forces, provide advisers, run joint exercises, support maritime operations, and offer cost-effective platforms, which is attractive for fragile states.”
