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Pakistan and Indonesia are edging closer to a defence deal that could reshape air power in Southeast Asia. The talks cover combat jets and drones, with both sides now confirming high-level meetings.
Indonesia’s defence minister, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, met Pakistan’s air force chief, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, to explore new defence options. According to people familiar with the talks, the focus includes the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet and unmanned aerial vehicles.
One source said the discussions centre on the JF-17 Thunder multi-role combat aircraft, which Pakistan and China developed together. The same source added that drones used for surveillance and strike missions were also part of the talks. Two other sources said negotiations have reached an advanced stage and involve more than 40 JF-17 jets. They also said Indonesia has shown interest in Pakistan’s Shahpar drones.
Both governments later confirmed that the meeting took place. A spokesperson for Indonesia’s Defence Ministry said the talks covered wider defence cooperation, strategic dialogue, and long-term opportunities. However, the spokesperson added that no final decision has been made so far.
Pakistan’s military also said Sjamsoeddin met army chief Asim Munir during his visit. They discussed regional and global security issues and ways to strengthen defence ties between the two countries.
Interest in Pakistan’s defence sector has grown after its aircraft were used during a short conflict with India last year. Since then, the JF-17 has appeared in defence deals with Azerbaijan and Libya. As a result, more countries are now taking a closer look at Pakistan’s military hardware.
At the same time, Indonesia continues to push ahead with plans to modernize its air force. The country has placed several large orders in recent years as it looks to upgrade its ageing fleet.
Pakistan is also expanding defence talks beyond Indonesia. The country is in parallel discussions with Bangladesh over a possible deal that includes JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. Pakistan’s military said the air force chiefs of both nations met in Islamabad to review the aircraft and related procurement plans.
Pakistan has also offered Bangladesh fast-tracked delivery of Super Mushshak trainer aircraft. The offer includes pilot training and long-term technical support. These talks follow warmer ties between the two countries after political upheaval in Bangladesh in August 2024.
Since then, direct trade has resumed, and military contacts have increased. After years of limited cooperation, both sides now appear more open to building closer defence links.
