Indonesia’s defence minister met Pakistan’s air force chief in Islamabad on Monday to discuss a potential deal that could include the sale of JF-17 combat jets and killer drones, Reuters reported, citing three security officials with knowledge of the meeting. The discussions are part of Pakistan’s broader effort to expand its defence industry and secure procurement deals with regional partners, including Libya, Sudan, and potentially Bangladesh.
The Indonesian Defence Ministry confirmed the meeting between Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and Pakistan Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu. “The meeting focused on discussing general defence cooperation relations, including strategic dialogue, strengthening communication between defence institutions, and opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields in the long term,” a ministry spokesperson told Reuters, noting that no final decisions had yet been made.
Sources familiar with the talks said the discussions included the potential sale of more than 40 JF-17 Thunder jets, a multi-role aircraft jointly developed by Pakistan and China, as well as Shahpar drones for surveillance and strike missions. Additional talks reportedly covered air defence systems, and training for Indonesian air force personnel and engineering staff. Delivery timelines and contract durations were not disclosed.
The interest in Pakistan’s JF-17 jets has surged following a brief conflict with India in 2025, which highlighted the capabilities of Pakistan’s indigenous military aircraft. Pakistan has previously secured deals involving the JF-17 with Azerbaijan and Libya, and is exploring similar agreements with Saudi Arabia, including converting loans into military supplies valued between $2 billion and $4 billion, Reuters reported.
Indonesia is currently modernizing its ageing air force fleet, having placed orders for 42 French Rafale jets in 2022 and 48 Turkish KAAN fighter jets last year. The country is also considering China’s J-10 and the U.S.-made F-15EX jets as it strengthens its air capabilities. President Prabowo Subianto visited Pakistan last month to discuss improving bilateral relations, including defence cooperation.
