Indonesia in Talks with Pakistan to Buy JF-17 Fighter Jets and Armed Drones

Photo File (X/@ZardSi)

Indonesia’s Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has held talks with Pakistan Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu to discuss a potential defence deal that could include the sale of JF-17 combat jets and armed drones, security officials familiar with the meeting said on Monday.

According to sources, the discussions are part of Pakistan’s broader push to expand its defence exports, following recent negotiations with Libya’s National Army and Sudan’s military, as Islamabad seeks to position itself as a growing regional defence supplier.

Indonesia’s Defence Ministry confirmed the meeting, saying both sides discussed general defence cooperation, strategic dialogue, and long-term opportunities for mutually beneficial collaboration. Ministry spokesperson Brigadier General Rico Ricardo Sirait said the talks had not yet resulted in a final agreement.

Security sources said negotiations included the possible sale of more than 40 JF-17 Thunder multi-role fighter jets, jointly developed by Pakistan and China. Indonesia is also reportedly interested in Pakistan’s armed and surveillance drones, including the Shahpar drone system.

One source said the talks are at an advanced stage, though no timelines or delivery schedules have been finalized. Pakistan’s military media wing did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Indonesia is actively modernizing its air force to replace ageing aircraft. President Prabowo Subianto, who visited Pakistan last month, has emphasized strengthening defence ties between the two countries.

In recent years, Indonesia has ordered 42 French Rafale jets and 48 KAAN fighter jets from Turkey, while also considering China’s J-10 and negotiating for U.S.-made F-15EX aircraft.

Interest in Pakistan’s defence industry has increased since its aircraft were used in a brief conflict with India last year. The JF-17 has since featured in deals with Azerbaijan and a $4 billion defence agreement with Libya, while Pakistan is also in talks with Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia for potential defence cooperation.