China, Pakistan are winning big contacts to modernize air forces in Asia, Middle East, and Africa

Quick Overview

China and Pakistan are securing significant military hardware export deals, driven by the affordability and performance of the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet, leading to a boom in sales to nations across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, notably including Bangladesh, Iraq, Sudan, Libya, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and Azerbaijan.

Key Points: The Chinese-Pakistani JF-17 Thunder jet is priced significantly lower than Western rivals, costing between $25 million and $30 million per unit, compared to the Eurofighter Typhoon ($117M) and Dassault Rafale ($125M). Bangladesh is purchasing 20 Chinese J-10C fighter jets for $2.2 billion to replace its aging F-7s, with deliveries scheduled between 2026 and 2027. Pakistan is in talks or has preliminary agreements with Libya, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Azerbaijan, and Bangladesh for fighter jets, drones, and defense systems. Iraq expressed interest in acquiring JF-17 Thunder jets after a high-level visit by the Pakistan Air Force chief. Sudan and Libya reportedly inked deals with Pakistan valued at $1.5 billion and $4 billion, respectively; Azerbaijan previously bought 40 JF-17s for $4.6 billion. China designs the main structure and key systems, including the engine, for the JF-17, while Pakistan builds and assembles the aircraft in Kamra. Pakistan's aggressive marketing of the JF-17 at global air shows has elevated the reputation of Chinese military technology worldwide, especially following its solid performance in conflicts with India.

Context: This video discusses the growing success of Chinese and Pakistani military hardware exports, particularly the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet, in penetrating international markets across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. The context is set against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions, specifically the India-Pakistan conflict, which has indirectly boosted the reputation of Chinese military technology. The video contrasts the low cost of the JF-17 with more expensive Western alternatives, highlighting how this affordability, combined with Pakistan's sales efforts and China's foundational role in the jet's design, is leading to a boom in export deals.