Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft continues to draw attention, attracting more interests from other nations at the World Defense Exhibition in Riyadh.
The exhibition has brought together defense officials, military delegations, and manufacturers from across the world, providing a key platform for showcasing advanced military hardware and exploring new procurement deals at a time of rising regional and global security challenges.
Saudi Arabia is using the event to strengthen its position as a regional center for defense and aerospace exhibitions, aiming to build international partnerships and attract foreign manufacturers as part of its broader economic diversification strategy.
Pakistan’s participation comes against the backdrop of deepening defense ties with Riyadh. Last year, the two countries signed a mutual defense cooperation agreement, while reports suggest discussions are underway on a broader arrangement that could also include Turkiye, though official details remain undisclosed.
According to Pakistan Television, the Pakistan Air Force’s JF-17 Thunder has stood out among fighter jets on display, drawing attention from defense experts and visitors despite competition from aircraft showcased by the United States, Saudi Arabia, and other countries.
Media reports indicate that Pakistan is currently engaged in defense negotiations with at least 13 countries, with talks at an advanced stage with six to eight of them. These discussions include potential sales of the China-Pakistan co-developed JF-17, along with training aircraft, drones, and other weapons systems.
Interest in the JF-17 has been further strengthened by its operational profile following the Pakistan–India military confrontation in May 2025, which Pakistani officials and defense analysts say highlighted the jet’s combat effectiveness.
Islamabad has been actively marketing the JF-17 as a cost-efficient, multi-role fighter for air forces looking for alternatives to expensive Western aircraft. The jet is already operational with several foreign air forces and remains a cornerstone of Pakistan’s defense export ambitions.
Countries involved in talks reportedly include Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Morocco, Ethiopia, and Nigeria, as well as authorities in eastern Libya led by Khalifa Haftar. Pakistan’s military has also publicly confirmed discussions with Bangladesh and Iraq, though further details have not been shared.
Most of the prospective buyers are Muslim-majority nations, many of them in the Middle East, a region where Pakistan has traditionally played a security support role.
On the sidelines of the exhibition, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif met his Saudi counterpart, Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
According to Radio Pakistan, Asif congratulated the Saudi leadership on the successful organization of the World Defense Exhibition, describing it as a key step toward strengthening regional defense cooperation.