Indonesia Advances Talks with Pakistan for JF-17 Fighter Jets and Armed Drones
Indonesia is moving closer to a significant defense acquisition from Pakistan, with advanced negotiations underway for the purchase of JF-17 Thunder multi-role fighter jets and associated armed drones. This development highlights Jakarta’s ongoing efforts to modernize its air force while diversifying its sources of military hardware.
The discussions gained momentum following a recent high-level meeting in Islamabad between Indonesia’s Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and Pakistan’s Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu. Sources familiar with the talks indicate that the negotiations are at an advanced stage, focusing primarily on the potential sale of more than 40 JF-17 Thunder aircraft—a lightweight, multi-role fighter jointly developed by Pakistan and China. Indonesia has also expressed strong interest in Pakistan’s Shahpar-series drones, which are designed for surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strike missions.
The proposed package extends beyond the platforms themselves. It reportedly includes air defense systems, comprehensive training programs for Indonesian pilots, engineers, and air force personnel at junior, mid-level, and senior ranks, as well as technical and engineering support. While both countries’ defense ministries have confirmed the meeting and emphasized broader bilateral defense cooperation, no final agreement or specific delivery timelines have been announced.
This push follows Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s official visit to Pakistan in December 2025, during which defense cooperation was a key focus. The two-day trip, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the nations, involved delegation-level talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and meetings with other senior officials. The visit underscored a shared commitment to strengthening ties in defense, trade, investment, and regional security.
Indonesia’s interest in the JF-17 stems from several practical factors. The aircraft is positioned as a cost-effective option, with unit prices estimated between $25 million and $30 million—significantly lower than many Western equivalents. This affordability makes it attractive for large-scale procurement without overburdening national budgets.
Additionally, the JF-17’s performance has drawn international attention following its deployment in a brief conflict between Pakistan and India in 2025. The fighter has proven its capabilities in air-to-air combat and precision strikes, featuring modern avionics such as AESA radar and compatibility with advanced weaponry. These factors have boosted its export appeal, with recent deals including agreements with Azerbaijan and a major $4 billion weapons package with Libya’s National Army.
For Indonesia, the JF-17 would serve as a complementary asset rather than a replacement for its higher-end acquisitions. Jakarta has already secured 42 French Rafale jets in 2022 (valued at $8.1 billion) and ordered 48 Turkish KAAN fighters last year. The lightweight JF-17 could handle routine patrols, maritime surveillance, and other day-to-day missions across the country’s vast archipelago, allowing premium platforms to be reserved for more strategic roles.
The deal also aligns with Pakistan’s broader strategy to expand its defense exports and position itself as a reliable supplier in the global arms market. Parallel discussions are ongoing with other nations, including Bangladesh, for potential JF-17 sales.
Indonesia continues to explore options from multiple suppliers to maintain strategic flexibility. This includes ongoing considerations of China’s J-10 fighter jets and negotiations with the United States for F-15EX aircraft.
While the talks remain promising and are described as “in the pipeline” by informed sources, they are still ongoing without a confirmed timeline or final quantities. If finalized, this agreement would represent a major milestone in Pakistan-Indonesia defense relations and further establish the JF-17 as a competitive, battle-tested option for air forces in the developing world.
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