Pakistan is in discussions with multiple countries to sell its JF-17 Fighter Jets. Minister for Defence Production Raza Hayat Haraj confirmed the talks during an interview with the BBC.
He said the negotiations involve several states interested in multi-role combat aircraft. The JF-17 is jointly developed by Pakistan and China. Any sale would require China’s approval.
“These negotiations take time. Many countries are interested in these aircraft,” Haraj said. He avoided naming any specific country, citing confidentiality.
Reports from Reuters mention that countries such as Libya, Sudan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Saudi Arabia have shown interest in acquiring JF-17 Fighter Jets. The minister said details of ongoing talks would be shared once agreements are finalized.
The JF-17 performance has received praise internationally. Haraj said air forces observed its effectiveness during the Pakistan-India conflict. He added that the aircraft’s low price is another key factor.
While similar fighter jets cost between $250 million and $350 million, the JF-17 is priced around $40 to $50 million. “It is competitively priced for global buyers,” the minister noted.
Some components of the JF-17 are manufactured in Pakistan, and others in China. Haraj emphasized that China will always be involved in any export deal. “China is fully involved. It is right,” he said.
Analysts note that Pakistan must act carefully in exporting the aircraft. China, as the senior partner in the JF-17 project, will closely monitor all agreements. The aircraft can only be sold to friendly nations, according to the minister.
Haraj also mentioned strategic allies, including Türkiye, China, Saudi Arabia, and Azerbaijan, as key partners in defence policy. He did not disclose details of a recent defence agreement with Saudi Arabia.
Regarding drones, the minister said Pakistan is working on UAV technology, including in the private sector. He confirmed ongoing development but did not provide specifics. Stay updated on Pakistan’s defence exports and fighter jet deals. Read more about Bangladesh’s interest in JF-17 Fighter Jets in our detailed report.
The JF-17 Fighter Jets are attracting attention due to their cost-effectiveness and operational capability. Pakistan aims to strengthen defence partnerships while ensuring technology remains secure with China.
