Pakistan to Sell JF-17 Jets to Sudan in $1.5 Billion Defense Deal

Islamabad, January 10, 2026: Pakistan is set to finalize a major defense agreement with Sudan, reportedly worth $1.5 billion, which will include the supply of weapons, fighter jets, drones, and advanced air-defense systems. Sources indicate that the deal is in its final stages and will significantly bolster Sudan’s military capabilities, particularly against paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.

The deal is expected to include the delivery of JF-17 fighter jets, jointly developed with China, as well as 10 Karakoram-8 light attack aircraft, over 200 drones for reconnaissance and strike missions, and advanced air-defense systems. Retired Pakistani Air Marshal Amir Masood confirmed to Reuters that the agreement also covers Super Mushshak training aircraft and potentially more JF-17 jets manufactured in Pakistan.

Strategic Context

The agreement comes amid Sudan’s ongoing civil war, which has created one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises and attracted foreign strategic interests in the Red Sea region. While Saudi Arabia supports the Sudanese government, countries like Israel and the UAE oppose it, making Pakistan’s military partnership with Sudan particularly significant.

Pakistan has been increasingly active in the international defense market. Last month, Islamabad signed a $4 billion defense deal with Libya to supply weapons and military equipment, including 16 JF-17 fighter jets. The Sudan agreement underscores Pakistan’s expanding role as a supplier of advanced defense technology in global markets.