Pakistan and Indonesia Edge Closer to Major Jets and Drones Defence Deal
Pakistan and Indonesia are reportedly moving closer to a landmark defence agreement, which could see the sale of combat jets and advanced drones to Jakarta, according to three security sources familiar with recent talks.
The discussions took place in Islamabad between Indonesia’s Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and Pakistan Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu. Both countries confirmed the meeting, highlighting ongoing efforts to deepen defence ties.
Sources revealed that the talks largely focused on the potential sale of JF-17 Thunder jets—a multi-role combat aircraft co-developed by Pakistan and China—and unmanned Shahpar drones, capable of both surveillance and target strikes. One source suggested that the deal could involve over 40 JF-17 jets. While specifics such as delivery timelines were not disclosed, officials emphasized that the discussions were progressing in an advanced stage.
Brigadier General Rico Ricardo Sirait, a spokesperson for Indonesia’s Defence Ministry, told Reuters, “The meeting focused on discussing general defence cooperation relations, including strategic dialogue, strengthening communication between defence institutions, and opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields in the long term.” He clarified that no formal agreements had yet been signed.
The Pakistani military also confirmed the discussions, noting that Defence Minister Field Marshal Asim Munir met with Sjamsoeddin to talk about regional and global security dynamics and explore avenues for enhanced bilateral defence collaboration.
Indonesia Modernizing Its Air Force
The move comes as Indonesia seeks to modernize its aging air force. In recent years, Jakarta has invested heavily in fighter jets, including 42 French Rafale jets worth $8.1 billion in 2022 and 48 Turkish KAAN jets last year. The country has also evaluated Chinese J-10 jets and is negotiating for U.S.-made F-15EX jets.
Retired Air Marshal Asim Suleiman, still closely following air force deals, told Reuters, “The Indonesia deal is in the pipeline,” referring to discussions on JF-17 Thunder jets, air defence systems, and the training of Indonesian air force personnel across junior, mid-level, and senior ranks.
Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto visited Pakistan last month to strengthen bilateral relations, including defence collaboration.
Pakistan’s Defence Industry Gains Global Attention
Interest in Pakistan’s military capabilities has surged following the recent deployment of its jets in a brief conflict with India. The JF-17 Thunder has attracted attention from countries such as Azerbaijan, Libya, and potentially Bangladesh, where future deals could include Super Mushshak training aircraft and additional JF-17s.
Pakistan is also reportedly negotiating a $2–$4 billion defence pact with Saudi Arabia, potentially converting Saudi loans into military supplies. These developments signal Pakistan’s growing role as a key defence player in the region.
As both countries continue these strategic talks, the potential deal could redefine defence cooperation in Southeast Asia while offering Indonesia a modernized, more versatile air force and Pakistan a significant foothold in international defence markets.