Indonesia looking to diversify its air force by buying JF-17 fighter jets from Pakistan
Indonesia is reportedly in discussions with Pakistan to purchase around 40 Sino-Pakistani JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, also known as the FC-1 Xiaolong in China, along with armed drones. The talks come amid growing international interest in the JF-17 and as Indonesia continues to diversify its fighter aircraft fleet.
According to a Reuters report citing three security officials, negotiations are underway for the potential acquisition. Both Indonesia’s Defence Ministry and Pakistan’s military have confirmed that a meeting took place between Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and Pakistan Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu. However, Indonesian officials stressed that the discussions have not yet resulted in any final decisions.
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In addition to the fighter jets, the proposed deal reportedly includes so-called “killer drones” for surveillance and strike missions, possibly the GIDS Shahpar unmanned aerial vehicles. Sources indicated that the talks cover not only aircraft sales but also air defence systems, pilot and officer training, and technical support for engineering staff. No timeline or contract duration has been disclosed.
The reported negotiations reflect a broader surge in global interest in the JF-17 Thunder, a lightweight multirole fighter jointly developed by China and Pakistan. The aircraft has already been exported to Azerbaijan and Nigeria, while reports have also linked it to potential deals with Libya, Sudan, and Bangladesh. There have even been indications of Saudi interest in the jet as part of broader financial arrangements.
Analysts note that attention on Pakistan’s defence industry has increased since the 2025 conflict with India, during which the JF-17’s capabilities—particularly its use of long-range Chinese-supplied PL-15 air-to-air missiles—drew international notice.
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Indonesia, a non-aligned country, is known for maintaining a highly diverse air force. It currently operates US-made F-16s, Russian Su-27 and Su-30 fighters, and South Korean light attack aircraft. Jakarta has also placed orders for French Rafale jets, committed to Turkey’s KAAN fighter programme, and is participating in the development of South Korea’s KF-21 Boramae. Talks have also been reported for Chinese J-10s and US-made F-15EX aircraft.
If concluded, a JF-17 deal would further expand Indonesia’s already wide-ranging combat aircraft portfolio, underlining its strategy of avoiding dependence on any single defence supplier while strengthening its air combat capabilities.
Source: https://aerospaceglobalnews.com/