Islamabad: Defence Production Minister Raza Hayat Harraj confirmed that Pakistan is negotiating with multiple countries for JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. The deals are aimed at friendly nations and involve joint agreements with China. He emphasized that all details of these negotiations are highly confidential.
The JF-17 is a light combat aircraft jointly developed by Pakistan and China and produced partially in both countries. Harraj said the jets were battle-tested during last year’s four-day conflict with India. Their performance, he noted, received praise from international air forces.
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The minister highlighted that the price of the JF-17 is significantly lower than comparable jets. While similar aircraft cost $250-350 million, the JF-17 costs around $40-50 million depending on features. Harraj stressed that China is involved in all deals and has rights regarding the aircraft technology.
Interest in the JF-17 is growing, with Pakistan holding talks with countries including Bangladesh, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and potentially Turkiye. Air chiefs and defence ministers of these countries have shown keen interest in procurement and expanding defence cooperation with Pakistan.
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Harraj added that production capacity is a state secret and time-consuming. Some parts are made in Pakistan, while others are manufactured in China. Expert analysis suggests China controls the technology and acts as a senior partner in all sales agreements.