Pakistan is notably expanding its defence influence across the Arab world. This growing military footprint may significantly alter power dynamics in South and West Asia, particularly concerning India.
Defence Deals and Islamic NATO
Recent developments reveal that Pakistan is on the brink of multi-billion dollar arms agreements with Saudi Arabia and Sudan. Raza Hayat Harraj, the Defence Production Minister, stated that discussions are underway for a trilateral defence pact resembling an Islamic NATO among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey.
- Pakistan-Saudi Arabia-Turkey trilateral agreement is in progress.
- The draft agreement has been under consideration for ten months.
Recent Arms Deals
This month, reports surfaced indicating that Pakistan is close to finalizing a $1.5 billion deal to supply arms and jets to Sudan. This agreement aims to bolster the Sudanese military amidst ongoing conflicts with the Rapid Support Forces.
Additionally, Islamabad is negotiating with Riyadh to convert approximately $2 billion in Saudi loans into a deal for JF-17 fighter jets. This follows the mutual defence pact established between the nations last year.
- $1.5 billion arms deal with Sudan.
- $2 billion JF-17 fighter jet deal with Saudi Arabia.
Pakistan’s Regional Military Role
Pakistan’s involvement in the Middle East has primarily revolved around training allied forces. However, these recent negotiations signify a potential shift towards becoming a key security provider in the region, which could influence ongoing conflicts.
Analysts advise that Pakistan must navigate carefully among the divergent interests in a divided Arab landscape to maintain its relationships with essential partners.
Complex Relationships in the Arab World
The geopolitical landscape in the region is complex. In Sudan, the armed forces, which are supported by Saudi Arabia, will receive the weapons. This raises concerns, as the United Arab Emirates has been accused of funding the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, a claim it has consistently denied.
In Libya, Pakistan is purportedly involved in a $4 billion deal with rebel leader Khalifa Haftar, who has faced allegations of aiding the RSF. Furthermore, tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE over the situation in Yemen complicate matters.
Global Arms Competition
The aircraft and military hardware that Pakistan offers, particularly the JF-17, have been noted for their geopolitical significance. Countries like Sudan and Libya may find reliance on Pakistan a strategic choice, backed by extensive support from China, which is a major collaborator in manufacturing these jets.
- China supports nearly two-thirds of Pakistan’s arms procurement.
- The US remains the largest arms exporter globally, accounting for 43% of the market in 2024.
These developments illustrate how Pakistan’s rising arms deals and partnerships in the Arab world could reshape the region’s security landscape, marking a significant shift in its military strategy and influence.
