Expert Debunks Pakistan Defense Minister’s Claim That Arms Sales Could Eliminate IMF Dependence

Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif recently claimed that the country could become financially self-sufficient through arms sales, reducing its reliance on the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He cited recent deals involving the JF-17 fighter jet with Azerbaijan and Libya, and hinted that Bangladesh could also purchase the aircraft. Speaking to Geo News, Asif stated, “Pakistan may not require IMF financial assistance over the next six months, as defense orders continue to increase.”

However, experts have dismissed these claims as overly optimistic. Ayesha Siddiqui, a Pakistani defense analyst, pointed out that while the JF-17 is assembled in Pakistan, the majority of its components—nearly 65%—come from China. The critical elements, including the KLJ-7A AESA radar, avionics, PL-15 missiles, electronic warfare systems, and helmet-mounted displays, are all supplied by China.

Siddiqui explained on X (formerly Twitter), “Khawaja Asif appears similar to many journalists who cover defense but do not understand the difference between assembling a plane and manufacturing its key systems. Pakistan’s 35% contribution to the JF-17 airframe is insufficient to generate the revenues needed to avoid IMF support.”

In essence, the Defense Minister’s vision of turning Pakistan into a billionaire nation through JF-17 sales resembles a “dream scenario,” as most profits and critical technology remain in Chinese hands. Countries purchasing the fighter jet largely deal with China, which guarantees the supply of all essential equipment, including weapons, radars, and avionics.

While Khawaja Asif projects confidence, analysts caution that Pakistan’s defense exports alone are unlikely to resolve its fiscal challenges, and the public should view such statements with skepticism.