Washington / Islamabad — October 6, 2025 — The United States has reportedly agreed to supply Pakistan with advanced air-to-air missiles under a multi-year security cooperation framework, with deliveries scheduled to begin by 2030, according to unnamed defence and diplomatic sources.
Officials said the planned provision, part of broader efforts to strengthen bilateral defence ties, would include cutting-edge missile systems intended to enhance the capabilities of Pakistan’s air force. The agreement is said to accompany training packages, logistics support, and components to ensure integration with Pakistan’s existing fighter fleet.
U.S. and Pakistani authorities have not publicly confirmed the details. A U.S. State Department spokesperson declined immediate comment, while a senior official in Islamabad described the reports as consistent with ongoing defence cooperation talks but said specifics would be announced through formal channels.
Defence analysts said the deal — if finalized — would represent a significant deepening of military cooperation between the two countries and could have implications for regional air-power balances. “Advanced air-to-air missiles improve an air force’s beyond-visual-range engagement and interoperability with allied platforms,” one analyst noted, asking not to be named.
The announcement arrives amid renewed strategic dialogue between Washington and Islamabad on counterterrorism, intelligence sharing, and regional stability. Observers say the timing and scope of any arms transfers will be closely watched by neighbouring states and international partners.
Human rights groups and regional policymakers are likely to scrutinize the move, calling for transparency on end-use assurances and the conditions attached to advanced weapons transfers.
Further details — including the exact missile types, financing arrangements, and delivery schedule — remain unconfirmed. Officials on both sides say formal statements will follow once agreements are finalized.
