Pakistan and Indonesia are reportedly moving closer to a defence deal that could see the sale of combat jets and drones to Jakarta, as reported by international media citing sources.
The discussions took place during a meeting between Indonesia’s Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and Pakistan’s Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu in Islamabad on Monday.
According to international media reports, the talks focused on the potential sale of JF-17 Thunder jets, a multi-role combat aircraft jointly developed by Pakistan and China, along with Shahpar drones designed for surveillance and targeted strikes.
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Reports suggest the deal could involve around 40 JF-17 jets, though exact numbers and delivery timelines have not been disclosed.
Both Pakistan’s military and Indonesia’s Defence Ministry confirmed the high-level meeting. Brigadier General Rico Ricardo Sirait, a spokesperson for Indonesia’s Defence Ministry, told international media that the discussion centered on general defence cooperation, strategic dialogue, and strengthening communication between defence institutions, without resulting in any final agreements.
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The Pakistani military also confirmed the talks, adding that the Defence Minister met Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir to discuss “matters of mutual interest, evolving regional and global security dynamics, and exploration of avenues for enhancing bilateral defence cooperation.”
Indonesia Modernizing Its Air Force
International media noted that Indonesia is actively modernizing its air force to replace ageing jets. In recent years, Jakarta has ordered 42 French Rafale jets valued at $8.1 billion and 48 KAAN fighter jets from Turkey, while also exploring purchases of China’s J-10 and U.S.-made F-15EX jets.
Pakistan’s Expanding Defence Industry
Pakistan’s defence industry has gained international attention, particularly after the deployment of its jets in a brief conflict with India last year.
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The JF-17s have been central to deals with countries like Azerbaijan and Libya. Pakistan is also in talks with Bangladesh for a defence pact that could include Super Mushshak training jets and JF-17s, while discussions with Riyadh could see a $2–4 billion deal converting Saudi loans into military supplies.
International media highlight that the potential Indonesia deal could include not only aircraft sales but also air defence systems, training programs for Indonesian air force personnel, and engineering support, marking a significant step in Pakistan’s growing role as a regional defence player.
