Pakistan’s JF-17 Fighter Jets Gain Global Interest

Pakistan is stepping up efforts to sell its JF-17 Thunder fighter jets to other countries. This marks a significant shift in its defence exports and foreign policy. The talks are part of a broader strategy to expand Pakistan’s role as a defence equipment supplier. And this builds stronger military ties with friendly nations.       

What Is the JF-17 Thunder?       

The JF-17 Thunder is a lightweight, multi-role combat aircraft that has become the backbone of the Pakistan Air Force's fighter jets. It is a versatile plane capable of performing air-to-air combat, ground strikes, and other missions.       

The aircraft was developed through a joint project between Pakistan and China. The Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) worked together to build this jet, with both countries contributing to its design and production. This is who made JF-17 Thunder, a collaborative effort that gave Pakistan a modern combat aircraft without relying on Western suppliers.       

The most advanced version is the JF-17 Thunder Block 3. This variant has improved avionics, an AESA radar, better weapons capability, and other modern systems that make it more competitive among fighter jets of a similar class.       

Why Is Pakistan Selling the JF-17 Thunder?       

Pakistan’s government wants to sell the JF-17 for several reasons:       

1. Boost Defence Exports: Pakistan is trying to grow its defence industry by exporting military products. The JF-17 Thunder has become a central part of this plan because many countries are now interested in affordable combat jets.       

2. Strengthen Strategic Partnerships: Selling fighter jets helps Pakistan build stronger defence ties with friendly countries. Talks are underway with nations such as Bangladesh, Libya, Sudan, Indonesia, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia.       

3. Improve the Economy: Defence sales can bring valuable foreign exchange to Pakistan, helping its economy at a time when it faces financial pressures.       

Who Is Interested in Buying the JF-17?       

Several countries have shown interest or are in discussions to buy the JF-17:       

• Bangladesh: Officials from Bangladesh and Pakistan have met to discuss a possible deal for JF-17 jets to help modernize Dhaka’s air force and replace older fighters.       
• Libya: Pakistan signed a weapons export agreement that includes JF-17 jets, marking one of its biggest defence deals.       
• Sudan: Talks suggest Pakistan may supply aircraft as part of a broader defence package.       
• Indonesia and Iraq: These countries are in advanced discussions about acquiring JF-17s and other systems like drones.       
• Saudi Arabia: There are talks to convert Saudi financial support to Pakistan into aircraft purchases.       

Pakistan only wants to sell JF-17 jets to friendly countries, rather than open markets, to strengthen strategic and political alliances.       

How Much Does the JF-17 Cost?       

One of the biggest selling points of the JF-17 is its JF-17 Thunder price in dollars. The aircraft is much cheaper than many Western or Russian fighters. Analysts estimate the JF-17’s price is around $40 million to $50 million per jet, making it attractive for nations with tighter defence budgets.       

In contrast, more advanced fighters like the Rafale or Gripen often cost more than $250 million or $350 million per plane. This puts the JF-17 at a clear price advantage for buyers who want capability but can’t afford high end jets.       

Performance and Combat Record       

During the 0–6 aerial engagement in 2025, Pakistan stated that six Indian Rafale fighter jets were neutralized during the encounter, with JF-17 Thunder aircraft playing a key role in the operation. The jets operated confidently alongside other Pakistan Air Force fighters and successfully defended Pakistan’s airspace. According to Pakistani military officials, this encounter showed the JF-17’s strong combat capability in real battle conditions, increasing global interest in the aircraft and highlighting Pakistan’s growing defence strength.       

Is It a Fifth-Generation Fighter Jet?       

Despite its modern features, the JF-17 Thunder is not a fifth-generation fighter jet. Fifth generation aircraft, like the U.S. F-35 or China’s J-20, include stealth technology and systems that allow them to avoid detection on radar. The JF-17 does not have such stealth features, so it remains in the 4.5-generation class of fighter jets with advanced radar and weapons but without stealth.       

Other Countries Already Using the JF-17       

Some air forces have already accepted the JF-17 into their fleets. For example, the Myanmar Air Force JF 17 squadron received jets in the past. Although there have been mixed reports about operational experiences.       

Other countries, such as Nigeria and Azerbaijan, have also bought JF-17 jets. This demonstrates that the aircraft has a place in different regions.       

Leadership and Talks       

High-level meetings have taken place between military leaders to discuss these potential sales. The Air Chief of Pakistan, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, has been personally involved in talks with counterparts from interested countries, including Bangladesh’s Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan. These talks cover not just aircraft sales, but also training, maintenance, and long-term support.       

What This Means for Pakistan       

Pakistan’s push to export the JF-17 is part of a broader effort to:       

• Strengthen alliances with friendly nations       
• Build its defence industry       
• Earn international revenue       
• Showcase its aviation expertise       

If these talks turn into signed contracts, Pakistan could become a more influential player in the global defence market, especially among countries seeking affordable and capable fighter jets.       

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