Pakistan eyes major weapons deal with Sudan amid civil war

The British news agency Reuters has reported that Pakistan is close to finalizing a defense deal worth approximately $1.5 billion to supply weapons and military aircraft to Sudan.

According to Reuters, a former senior Pakistan Air Force officer and three sources familiar with the matter stated that the deal would significantly boost the military capability of the Sudanese army, which is currently engaged in fierce fighting against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The report highlights that the civil war in Sudan, which has persisted for the past two and a half years, has devolved into a major humanitarian tragedy involving the interests of global powers. The conflict threatens to divide this strategically vital country—located near the Red Sea—which is rich in gold and other valuable mineral resources.

According to sources, under the anticipated agreement, Pakistan will provide the Sudanese army with 10 Karakoram-8 (K-8) light attack aircraft, more than 200 surveillance and loitering munitions (suicide drones), and modern air defense systems.

The former high-ranking PAF officer noted that the package could include Super Mushshak trainer aircraft alongside the K-8s. He added that while JF-17 Thunder fighter jets may also be part of the deal, final details regarding their quantity and delivery schedule have not been disclosed.

Reuters stated that military officials in both Pakistan and Sudan did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

According to the agency, this potential deal is viewed as another major breakthrough for Pakistan’s defense industry, especially as global interest has surged following the performance of Pakistani-made aircraft during tensions with India last year.

The report also mentions that last month, Pakistan signed a defense deal worth more than $4 billion with the Libyan National Army—considered one of the largest arms exports in the country’s history—while talks are also underway with Bangladesh regarding defense cooperation involving Super Mushshak and JF-17 aircraft.