Pakistan has finalised one of its largest defence export agreements, signing a multibillion-dollar deal with Libya’s eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA). The agreement highlights Pakistan’s push to build an export-driven and self-sustaining defence industry.
According to Pakistani officials involved in defence matters, the deal is worth more than $4 billion. Some officials estimated the value could reach $4.6 billion. The agreement was confirmed after a meeting in Benghazi between Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir and LNA deputy commander Saddam Khalifa Haftar.
The deal includes 16 JF-17 Thunder multi-role fighter jets, jointly developed by Pakistan and China. It also covers 12 Super Mushak trainer aircraft for pilot training. Pakistani officials said the agreement includes land, sea, and air equipment to be delivered over approximately two and a half years, though quantities may vary.
The LNA’s media reported that the agreement also covers weapons sales, joint training, and military manufacturing. Haftar described the pact as a “new phase of strategic military cooperation with Pakistan,” according to remarks broadcast by Al-Hadath.
Libya has been under a United Nations arms embargo since 2011, making any weapons transfer sensitive. A UN panel in December 2024 said the embargo has been largely ineffective, with multiple foreign states providing military training and assistance. Pakistani officials confirmed that the deal does not violate UN restrictions.
This agreement reflects Pakistan’s broader strategy to expand defence exports. The country has promoted its domestic defence industry, including aircraft production, armoured vehicles, munitions, and naval construction. Islamabad has also highlighted the Pakistan Air Force’s recent performance in clashes with India as evidence of its capabilities.
Pakistan markets the JF-17 as a cost-effective fighter jet. It offers training, maintenance, and full support packages outside traditional Western supply chains. The country has also strengthened defence ties with Gulf partners, signing a strategic agreement with Saudi Arabia and holding high-level talks with Qatar.
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Analysts said the Libya deal significantly boosts Pakistan’s influence in North Africa. The agreement is considered historic in scale and impact, marking Pakistan as an emerging exporter of conventional military equipment worldwide.
