Pakistan Nears $1.5 Billion Deal to Supply Weapons and Jets to Sudan

Pakistan is in the final stages of finalizing a significant $1.5 billion deal to supply weapons and jets to Sudan, sources familiar with the matter have revealed. This deal, which includes 10 Karakoram-8 light attack aircraft, over 200 drones, and advanced air defense systems, will provide crucial support to Sudan's military in its ongoing conflict against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This prolonged conflict has escalated into one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.

Sources confirmed that the package would also likely include Super Mushshak training aircraft and possibly JF-17 fighters, jointly developed with China and produced in Pakistan. A retired Pakistani air marshal, Aamir Masood, confirmed that the deal was nearly finalized, though exact details regarding the figures and delivery schedules were not disclosed.

Pakistan’s defense ministry and military were unavailable for immediate comment on the deal, while Sudan’s army also did not respond to requests for comment.

The addition of drones and fighter jets from Pakistan could significantly enhance Sudan's air capabilities, potentially reversing the RSF’s growing use of drones in territorial gains. The RSF has reportedly received backing from the United Arab Emirates, although the UAE has denied these claims.

The deal's funding remains unclear, but Masood suggested that Saudi Arabia might play a key role in financing the procurement of military equipment for Sudan. Some sources indicated that Saudi Arabia may have brokered the deal, but there was no confirmation of their involvement in funding it. Saudi Arabia has also been in talks with Pakistan for a potential defense deal worth between $2 billion and $4 billion, which could include Sudan’s weapons.
 

This arms deal underscores Pakistan’s growing ambitions in the defense sector, which has attracted international interest, particularly following the deployment of Pakistani jets during the recent India-Pakistan conflict. With its defense sector on the rise, Pakistan recently signed a $4 billion weapons deal with the Libyan National Army and is in discussions with Bangladesh regarding possible defense contracts.