PM Shehbaz Sharif: Several Countries Now in Talks to Buy Pakistan's Fighter Jets

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday announced that several countries are in active discussions with Islamabad to acquire Pakistani-made fighter jets. Addressing a federal cabinet meeting, Sharif said demand for the aircraft had increased significantly, particularly following last year’s military tensions with India. His remarks were reported by state-run Radio Pakistan.

While the prime minister did not name specific aircraft models, local media reports suggest that the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet is central to the negotiations. Countries reportedly involved in discussions include Sudan, Libya, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Indonesia, and Bangladesh. There has also been interest shown in Pakistan’s Mushshak training aircraft, which has previously been exported to several nations.

Sharif’s comments follow similar statements made by Defence Production Minister Raza Hayat Haraj, who recently told BBC Urdu that multiple countries had expressed interest in purchasing the JF-17 Thunder. Haraj noted that negotiations were ongoing and complex, emphasizing that export agreements typically take time to finalize. He declined to disclose specific countries or stages of talks, citing diplomatic and commercial sensitivities.

Also Read: Bangladesh Eyes China-Pakistan JF-17 Fighter Jets in Major Defence Shift

The defence production minister stressed that Pakistan would only sell its fighter jets to friendly nations, ensuring they are not used against Pakistan’s own interests. He also confirmed that China, which co-developed the JF-17 with Pakistan, remains fully involved in all export decisions and approvals related to the aircraft.

Cost competitiveness has emerged as a major selling point of the JF-17 Thunder. Haraj highlighted that while comparable fighter jets globally are priced between $250 million and $350 million, Pakistan’s aircraft are significantly more affordable. This pricing advantage, combined with operational capability, has reportedly boosted international interest.

The claims signal Islamabad’s ambition to expand its defence exports and strengthen its position in the global arms market. If finalized, these deals could enhance Pakistan’s defence industry profile while deepening strategic ties with partner nations.

Also Read: Bangladesh Eyes China-Pakistan JF-17 Fighter Jets in Major Defence Shift