Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has claimed that demand for the Chinese-origin JF-17 Thunder fighter jets surged after the May 2025 conflict with India. He said the increase in orders could help Pakistan avoid seeking IMF bailouts within six months.
Speaking to Geo News, Asif said the jets proved their capability during combat operations. He argued that strong export interest may improve Pakistan’s financial position. His remarks came despite Pakistan remaining under a $7 billion IMF programme, its 24th to date.
The IMF support followed a $3 billion emergency deal in 2023 that helped avert a sovereign default. The loans came with strict conditions, including fiscal reforms and subsidy reductions. Pakistan was also forced to sell Pakistan International Airlines under IMF-linked restructuring.
Islamabad has intensified defence diplomacy to expand arms exports. The JF-17 forms the backbone of this strategy. Pakistan has secured deals with Azerbaijan and Libya and has held talks with Bangladesh.
Reuters reported that Pakistan is also discussing a deal with Saudi Arabia to convert $2 billion in loans into JF-17 purchases. Analysts say these talks reflect Pakistan’s effort to monetise defence production amid economic stress.
However, critics have questioned Asif’s claims. Political scientist Ayesha Siddiqa argued that arms sales alone cannot replace IMF support, citing limited net financial gains after production costs.
