Islamabad / Benghazi, 23 December 2025 — In a landmark move for Pakistan’s defense industry, Islamabad has signed a $4 billion defense export deal to supply 16 JF‑17 Thunder fighter jets and additional military aircraft to Libya’s eastern Libyan National Army (LNA). The agreement marks one of the largest arms export contracts in Pakistan’s history.
🛩️ A Major Boost for Pakistan’s Defense Industry
The deal includes 16 JF‑17 multirole fighter jets and 12 Super Mushak trainer aircraft, to be delivered over the next two and a half years. Analysts say this positions Pakistan as a key global player in cost-effective, modern fighter jets, highlighting the JF‑17 as an attractive alternative to pricier Western aircraft.
🌍 Strategic Implications
The LNA currently controls eastern Libya, making this deal geopolitically significant amid ongoing political divisions in the country. While raising questions about compliance with the UN arms embargo, the contract demonstrates Pakistan’s growing influence in the North African defense market.
💡 Economic and Global Significance
For Pakistan, this is more than just an arms deal. It strengthens the country’s defense export portfolio, opens doors to new markets, and underscores the capabilities of Pakistan’s military-industrial complex. Observers predict that this milestone could pave the way for further defense collaborations with Africa and the Middle East.
🔥 What’s Next?
Deliveries are expected to begin in the coming months, with both nations closely monitoring operational, logistical, and strategic aspects. Defense experts believe the deal could reshape regional air power dynamics while boosting Pakistan’s global defense reputation.
Pakistan’s leap into high-value military exports signals a new era of economic growth and international partnerships — all while putting the JF‑17 on the global aviation map.
