Armament: 3 times cheaper and ultra-performing, Morocco’s new military bet

Islamabad has initiated talks with thirteen countries, including the Kingdom, to offer aircraft jointly manufactured with China, as well as training aircraft and weapon systems. According to sources close to the sector cited by Reuters, several of these discussions are at an advanced stage. Analysts point out that this equipment represents an alternative after disruptions in global supply chains. The Pakistani material was tested during an air battle in May 2025, during which the squadrons used JF-17s alongside Chinese-made J-10s.

One of the main levers of these negotiations is the price competitiveness. The price of a JF-17 is estimated between 30 and 40 million dollars, about three times cheaper than Western alternatives. For potential partners, this combination offers a faster and less politically constrained capacity buildup. In addition to fighter jets, the interest focuses on Shahpar drones, MFI-17 Mushshak training aircraft, and mine-resistant armored vehicles Mohafiz.

Despite this growing interest, the Pakistani authorities specify that these negotiations remain subject to international pressures that could influence their outcome. The country plans, however, to significantly increase its production rate by the end of 2027, potentially doubling the number of aircraft manufactured annually with the support of Beijing. At the same time, Pakistan navigates between its various regional allies to consolidate its position as an intermediate-level defense capability provider.