Somalia is negotiating with Pakistan to purchase up to 24 JF-17 Thunder Block III jets, marking the Horn of Africa nation’s most ambitious effort since 1991 to rebuild its air combat capability and assert control over its airspace and coastline.
The discussions intensified after a February 2026 visit to Islamabad by Somali Air Force Commander Mohamud Sheikh Ali, reflecting the urgent need to reconstruct a fixed-wing combat force that collapsed with Somalia’s central government decades ago.
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Strategic Significance
A Somali defence ministry official said, “Our airspace must be protected by Somali hands,” describing the acquisition not merely as a weapons procurement but as a statement of political sovereignty and institutional resurgence.
Airpower is particularly critical in the region, where control of the skies affects territory management, trade routes, and counterterrorism operations.
Cost and Operational Appeal
Pakistan Defence Production Minister Raza Hayat Harraj highlighted the financial advantage of the JF-17.
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“While some Western options may be more technologically advanced, they cost more than three times as much as an approximately $30 million to $40 million JF-17,” he said, making it a cost-effective solution for Somalia’s limited defence budget.
Analysts in Islamabad pointed to the JF-17 as a comprehensive operational package, emphasizing its flexibility, lower maintenance costs, integrated training, and absence of restrictive Western political conditions.
Former Pakistan Air Force air commodore Adil Sultan cited the platform’s proven performance against more expensive Western and Russian systems, boosting its appeal for nations seeking independent defence capabilities.
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Potential Impact
If finalized, the deal – estimated at $900 million (approx Rs251 billion) – would represent Somalia’s largest defence investment since the Cold War.
The acquisition could enable full sovereign control over its airspace, including regions like Somaliland, and reduce reliance on foreign airpower from the United States and Turkey.
