Addressing a federal cabinet meeting, the prime minister said Pakistan’s armed forces are achieving steady gains every day and expressed confidence that the country will ultimately succeed in its fight against terrorism.
He emphasized that fighter jets play a central role in national security and defense readiness, calling them a backbone of modern warfare.
According to the prime minister, many countries are actively engaging with Pakistan to discuss the purchase of its fighter aircraft. These talks, he said, reflect growing trust in Pakistan’s defense capabilities and are likely to strengthen the country’s strategic and industrial position.
International recognition of Pakistan’s air strength has also appeared in foreign media. A report by The Telegraph acknowledged Pakistan’s military capability and air superiority, highlighting the rising profile of its fighter jets, particularly the JF-17 Thunder.
The JF-17 Thunder, jointly developed by Pakistan and China, is quickly becoming a popular choice among air forces around the world. Countries such as Bangladesh, Iraq, Indonesia, and Libya have shown interest, while some have already completed or are close to finalizing purchase agreements. Recently, the Iraqi Air Force also expressed its desire to acquire the JF-17, adding to the momentum.
During a recent visit to Pakistan, the Chief of Bangladesh Air Force showed keen interest in the JF-17 Block III variant. At present, the aircraft is already in service with the air forces of Azerbaijan, Nigeria, and Myanmar.
Defense analysts point out that one of the JF-17’s biggest strengths is its cost effectiveness. While fighter jets like France’s Rafale, Sweden’s Gripen, the Eurofighter Typhoon, and China’s J-10 cost between 80 and 107 million dollars, the JF-17 is available at around 25 million dollars. This affordable price, combined with solid performance, makes it an attractive option for countries seeking reliable air power without heavy financial strain.
The JF-17 has also demonstrated its operational value in recent encounters, where it reportedly performed well against more expensive aircraft. Such performance has helped build its reputation as a practical and dependable fighter in its class.
Technically, the JF-17 is a modern multi role combat aircraft capable of air to air, air to ground, and maritime strike missions. It is produced with a 58 percent contribution from Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Kamra and a 42 percent share from China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporation. The aircraft is equipped with advanced surveillance and electronic warfare systems and is designed to operate effectively in all weather conditions.
The latest Block III version is considered a 4.5 generation fighter jet. It features an AESA radar that can track multiple targets at long ranges and supports beyond visual range missile capability, giving pilots greater situational awareness and combat flexibility.
As global demand grows, the JF-17 Thunder is increasingly seen not just as a fighter jet, but as a symbol of Pakistan’s rising defense industry and its ability to deliver smart, affordable, and battle ready solutions to the world.
