Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif claims a surge in orders for JF-17 Thunder jets after the May 2025 conflict with India, suggesting Islamabad could avoid IMF dependence within six months. The jets, produced jointly by Pakistan and China, have been marketed to countries including Azerbaijan, Libya, and potentially Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia. Asif highlighted their combat-proven reliability and cost-effectiveness. Pakistan is seeking to expand its defence exports amid financial strain under a $7 billion IMF programme. Analysts, however, question whether arms sales can offset losses, pointing to Operation Sindoor, in which Pakistan lost multiple fighter jets, drones, and critical airbase infrastructure. The JF-17 Thunder, a lightweight multi-role fighter, is assembled in Pakistan with components from China, a Russian engine, and British seats. Unit costs are estimated at $25–30 million, making it a cornerstone of Pakistan’s defence strategy and export ambitions.
