‘Battle-Tested’ Pakistani Weapons Gain Global Attention as Arms Exports Surge After May Conflict With India

Pakistan’s defence industry has seen a sharp surge in global interest and export orders following the four-day military conflict with India in May last year, where the country showcased both Chinese-origin systems and its own indigenously developed military hardware.

During the conflict, Pakistan demonstrated the battlefield effectiveness of platforms such as the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet, Al-Khalid main battle tank, and the Fatah-series guided multiple launch rocket system (G-MLRS) — significantly boosting Pakistan’s standing as an emerging arms exporter.

JF-17 Thunder Proves Combat Credibility

Among all systems, the JF-17 Thunder emerged as the standout performer. Its operational role in both the 2019 skirmish with India and the May 2025 conflict reinforced the jet’s combat credibility.

During last year’s confrontation, the JF-17 was widely credited with neutralising India’s S-400 air defence system deployed at Adampur, a development that attracted international attention. The aircraft’s strong performance was further highlighted at the Dubai Airshow, where it drew interest from multiple foreign delegations.

Defence Exports Seen as Economic Game-Changer

Earlier this week, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said the growing success of Pakistan’s weapons industry could transform the national economy.

“Our aircraft have been tested in combat, and we are receiving so many orders that Pakistan may not need the International Monetary Fund in six months,” he told Geo News.

Officials say Pakistan’s ability to offer cost-effective, battle-proven weapons, along with training and long-term support, has made its defence products attractive to developing and middle-income countries.

Timeline: Pakistan’s Key Arms Deals Since May 2025

January 10, 2026 — Iraq Shows Strong Interest in JF-17

During a visit by Pakistan Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Iraqi Air Force Commander Lt Gen Mohanad Ghalib Mohammed Radi Al-Asadi praised the PAF’s professionalism during the India conflict.

According to ISPR, Iraq expressed keen interest in acquiring JF-17 Thunder fighter jets and Super Mushshak trainer aircraft, while also seeking cooperation in advanced training programs.

January 7, 2026 — Saudi Arabia in Talks for Jets-for-Loans Deal

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are reportedly negotiating a deal to convert $2 billion in Saudi loans into a JF-17 fighter jet agreement, according to Reuters.

Pakistani sources said the total value of the proposed deal could reach $4 billion, with an additional $2 billion earmarked for defence equipment, marking a major expansion of bilateral military cooperation after the two countries signed a mutual defence pact last year.

January 6, 2026 — Bangladesh Explores JF-17 Procurement

Pakistan and Bangladesh held high-level air force talks focused on the potential procurement of JF-17 Thunder aircraft.

ISPR said the PAF offered fast-tracked delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft, along with a comprehensive training and long-term support ecosystem. Detailed discussions were also held on integrating JF-17s into the Bangladesh Air Force.

December 22, 2025 — Libya Finalises Major Arms Deal

In December, Pakistan signed a multi-billion-dollar defence agreement with Libya, placing it among a small group of countries exporting full-spectrum conventional military equipment.

Documents reviewed by Reuters revealed the deal includes JF-17 fighter jets, Super Mushshak trainers, and land, sea, and air defence equipment, to be delivered over two and a half years.

Pakistan’s Growing Defence Footprint

Analysts say Pakistan’s defence exports are gaining momentum due to:

Combat-proven performance

Affordable pricing

Flexible financing

Integrated training and support

As regional tensions reshape defence priorities, Pakistan is positioning itself as a reliable and competitive arms supplier in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

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