The world’s largest Muslim-majority country, Indonesia, is reportedly in advanced talks with Pakistan over a potential defence deal that could include JF-17 Thunder fighter jets and armed drone systems, as Islamabad intensifies efforts to expand its defence exports.
According to officials familiar with the discussions, the talks took place during a high-level meeting in Islamabad between Indonesia’s Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and Pakistan Air Force Chief Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu. The engagement focused on strengthening bilateral defence cooperation and exploring long-term strategic opportunities.
Sources indicate that the proposed package may include more than 40 JF-17 Thunder aircraft, a multi-role combat jet jointly developed by Pakistan and China, along with armed and surveillance drones. Indonesia has also reportedly shown interest in Pakistan’s Shahpar drone platform, which is designed for reconnaissance and precision strike missions. However, no details have been disclosed regarding delivery timelines or the overall duration of any potential programme.
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Both sides have confirmed that the meeting took place. Indonesia’s Ministry of Defence stated that discussions centred on broader defence collaboration and strategic dialogue, stressing that no final decision has yet been made. Pakistan’s military also confirmed the visit and said the Indonesian defence minister held a separate meeting with Asim Munir, where evolving regional and global security dynamics and ways to deepen bilateral military ties were discussed.
Indonesia has been actively modernising its air force in recent years. In 2022, Jakarta signed a deal worth $8.1 billion for 42 Rafale fighter jets and later moved to acquire 48 KAAN fighter aircraft from Turkey. It has also evaluated other options, including China’s J-10 and U.S.-made F-15EX jets, as part of its broader force renewal plan.
Another official familiar with the talks said Pakistan has offered a wider cooperation package beyond aircraft sales. This includes air defence systems, training programmes for Indonesian air force personnel at various levels, and technical and engineering support.
The Indonesia talks come as Pakistan expands its defence diplomacy globally. Islamabad has also reportedly held discussions with Bangladesh over a defence package that could include Super Mushshak training aircraft and JF-17 fighters, while negotiations with Sudan and Saudi Arabia are said to involve broader weapons, aircraft, and air-defence systems, with the JF-17 again featuring as a potential component.
If finalised, an agreement with Indonesia would mark one of Pakistan’s most significant defence export deals in Southeast Asia and further strengthen its position as a competitive supplier in the global defence market.
