According to different media releases, Saudi Arabia may become the second Arab country - after Eastern Libya (LNA) - to buy Pakistan’s JF-17 THUNDER multirole fighter jet. Indeed, it looks like the 2 countries are close to make a deal to convert about US$2 billion in Saudi loans into a fleet of THUNDER jets. This deal has apparently the double positive outcome to tie the relationship between the 2 countries, following the mutual defense pact signed in September 2025, while easing Pakistan’s acute financial strain.

The potential arrangement’s total value could hit $4 billion for purchasing the light combat jet developed by China and Pakistan, with an additional $2 billion earmarked for weapons, training and support equipment. At this stage, both countries’ authorities have formally not confirmed the talks. The THUNDER’s relatively low cost and its claimed combat use against Indian RAFALE and Russian jets last year have boosted its export appeal.

When considering this potential purchase, Saudi Arabian leaders may evaluate 2 main options. One option involves acquiring cost-effective jets such as the JF-17, which could support sustained, high-intensity operations during situations like the conflict with the Houthis in Yemen. However, there are notable drawbacks to this approach. From a technical standpoint, integrating fighters linked to China into Saudi Arabia’s primarily Western-equipped air force poses challenges for both logistics and operations. This integration also introduces political risks; Western allies - especially the United States - might perceive Chinese hardware within Saudi military networks as an operational security threat. This concern became evident when Turkey’s acquisition of Russia’s S-400 air-defense system resulted in its removal from the F-35 program.

The second potential option could see the Saudis’ purchasing intended for the Sudanese Air Force. The 2 countries have deep historical and religious ties, and in recent years, against the backdrop of Sudan’s civil war, relations have evolved seeing Riyadh openly supporting the Sudanese Armed Forces against the UAE backed Rapid Support Forces (RSF)

The Saudis may acquire between 16 and 40 JF-17C Block III variant, equipped with an active electronically scanned array radar and compatible with China’s long-range PL-15 air-to-air missile. In any case, this is going to be another remarkable success for Pakistan (and China) after securing the recent Libya deal (16 JF-17s and other unspecified military equipment for an estimated $4-4.6 billion) and Azerbaijan (40 JF-17s under a $4.6 billion defense agreement).