Recent meetings between senior military officials of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia indicate a move to deepen defence cooperation, highlighting shifting geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East and beyond. While this may appear as a routine arms deal at first glance, experts suggest it forms part of a broader strategic realignment.
Reports suggest Riyadh is considering converting a nearly $2 billion loan to Pakistan into a weapons deal, potentially centred on the jointly developed JF-17 fighter aircraft by Pakistan and China. This arrangement could ease Pakistan’s economic challenges and provide Saudi Arabia with a cost-effective alternative to expensive Western fighter jets.
Analysts note that the deal also reflects China’s wider strategy to regain foothold in defence markets where its exports previously had limited success. Pakistan is being positioned as a politically acceptable intermediary in this “debt-for-arms” model, as described in Asian media.
According to European media outlet EU Reporter, the agreement resembles a traditional debt-for-arms swap but raises questions given the JF-17’s export history. Over the last decade, China aggressively marketed the aircraft as a low-cost multirole fighter to countries including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Saudi Arabia. Most countries have distanced themselves from deals, with Myanmar as the sole buyer facing operational problems such as engine, avionics, radar issues, and structural fatigue, reducing the aircraft’s effectiveness by 2023.
Within this context, Pakistan has advanced potential defence exports to Libya, Bangladesh, and now Saudi Arabia. Observers view this as a calculated strategy for Pakistan to establish itself as a defence hub for Muslim-majority nations, offering the JF-17 as a “neutral” option without direct dependency on China or Russia. However, given Pakistan’s limited industrial capability, China’s behind-the-scenes role—whether in full aircraft supply or critical technological components—is considered indispensable.
Experts describe this as China’s “backdoor strategy,” enabling it to circumvent political opposition and reputational risks. The implications for Europe are concerning, as indirect arms exports undermine the EU’s ability to enforce human rights safeguards and end-use conditions, affecting its role as a standard-bearer in global arms control and diminishing its soft power.
EU Reporter further highlights serious consequences for the United States. By using Pakistan as an intermediary, China can expand its defence presence without directly crossing American “red lines,” thereby reducing the effectiveness of sanctions, political pressure, and diplomatic deterrence. A key worry is that Chinese technology could indirectly enter the air forces of close US allies like Saudi Arabia, raising critical questions on interoperability, data security, and future strategic alliances, especially as the US seeks to strengthen security coalitions in both the Indo-Pacific and Middle East.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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