The world’s largest Muslim-majority nation is reportedly in talks with Pakistan over a potential defense deal that could include JF-17 Thunder fighter jets and armed drone systems, as Islamabad ramps up efforts to expand its defense exports.
The discussions took place during a meeting in Islamabad between Indonesia’s Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, according to officials familiar with the engagement.
The potential package is understood to cover the JF-17, a multi-role combat aircraft jointly developed by Pakistan and China, along with drones designed for surveillance and precision strikes.
Officials with knowledge of the matter indicated the talks are at an advanced stage and may involve more than 40 JF-17 aircraft. Indonesia is also said to have shown interest in Pakistan’s Shahpar drone platform. No details were shared on delivery timelines or the length of any proposed program.
Both sides confirmed the high-level meeting. Indonesia’s Defense Ministry stated that the engagement focused on broader defense cooperation, strategic dialogue, and long-term opportunities, noting that discussions have not yet yielded a final decision.
Pakistan’s military also confirmed the visit and stated that the Indonesian Defense Minister separately met with Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, discussing evolving regional and global security conditions and ways to deepen bilateral defense ties.
Indonesia has been shopping aggressively for new combat aircraft in recent years as it seeks to replace older platforms and strengthen its air power. Jakarta signed for 42 Rafale jets in 2022 in a deal valued at $8.1 billion, and later moved to acquire 48 KAAN fighter jets from Turkey. Indonesia has also weighed options such as China’s J-10 and has been in talks regarding U.S.-made F-15EX jets.
Another official familiar with ongoing procurement discussions said Pakistan has also been offering a wider cooperation package that includes air defense systems, training programmes for Indonesian air force personnel at multiple levels, and technical support for engineering staff.
Pakistan has also been in talks with Bangladesh on a defence package that could include Super Mushshak training aircraft and JF-17 fighters, as bilateral ties improve.
In addition, Pakistan is reportedly close to a major weapons deal with Sudan, where the package includes aircraft, drones, and air-defense systems, with JF-17 fighters mentioned as a possible part of the broader arrangement.
Pakistan has also reportedly held talks with Saudi Arabia on a defence arrangement that could involve JF-17 jets as part of a larger package.
Via: Reuters