This was discussed in the meeting between Indonesian Defense Minister and Pak Air Force Chief in Islamabad. Pakistan is also trying to make similar defense deals with countries like Bangladesh and Saudi.
Jakarta: According to a report, Indonesian Defense Minister has met Pakistan Air Force Chief in Islamabad to discuss the deal to sell fighter aircraft and drones to Indonesia. The new talks come at a time when Pakistan’s defense industry is moving ahead with a number of defense discussions, including deals with the Libyan National Army and the Sudanese Army. The Indonesian Defense Ministry has confirmed the meeting between Defense Minister Saffari Syamsuddin and Pakistan Air Force Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu.
Brigadier General Rico Ricardo Sirite, a defense ministry spokesman, told Reuters the meeting focused on discussing general defense cooperation ties. He also said that the talks have not yielded any concrete results yet. Sources said the talks revolve around the sale of JF-17 jets, a multi-role fighter aircraft jointly developed by Pakistan and China, and killer drones designed for surveillance and attacking targets. Reports say negotiations are progressing and include more than 40 JF-17 jets. Indonesia had also shown interest in Pakistan’s Shaper drone.
There is no clarity on the delivery schedule and how many years a particular deal will last. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto visited Pakistan last month on a two-day visit to discuss improving bilateral ties, including defence.
Over the past few years, Indonesia has placed orders for several jets. In 2022, it strengthened its air force by purchasing 42 French Rafale jets worth $8.1 billion and 48 KAAN fighter jets from Türkiye. It is also considering purchasing China’s J-10 fighter jets and is in talks to buy US-made F-15EX jets. Pakistan is also negotiating arms deals with countries like Bangladesh and Saudi.