Pakistan has significantly expanded its military presence in Saudi Arabia under the Joint Strategic Defence Agreement signed between the two countries last year. CNN-News18 was the first to report the development
on April 11.
The deployment reportedly includes 8,000 Pakistani troops, a squadron of fighter aircraft, air defence systems and anti-drone guns stationed in the kingdom to strengthen regional security coordination and operational readiness amid the ongoing West Asia conflict.
According to sources, the Pakistani contingent includes nearly 16 fighter jets, largely JF-17 fighters jointly developed with China, which were sent to Saudi Arabia earlier this year along with support and surveillance assets.
JF-17 Jets, Air Defence Systems Deployed
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defence on April 11 confirmed the arrival of a Pakistani military force at King Abdulaziz Air Base in the Eastern Sector under the bilateral defence pact. The ministry stated that the deployment aims to enhance joint military cooperation, improve combat preparedness and support regional stability.
According to top Saudi security sources, Pakistani Air Force personnel, naval officers and army units are already operating in close coordination with Saudi forces. It is learnt that Pakistan has deployed advanced air defence systems, including the LY-80, FM-90 and Anza missile systems, which are being operated by Pakistani personnel in Saudi Arabia.
Additional movements of Pakistan Air Force IL-78MP air tanker and cargo aircraft were also reported on March 1, indicating possible reinforcement and logistical support operations linked to the deployment.
Before the departure of the Pakistan Air Force cargo and air tanker aircraft, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif contacted Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
“Pakistan stands in full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and our brotherly Gulf countries in this perilous time. We remain ready to play a constructive role for peace and pray that the blessings of Ramadan bring calm and stability to our region,” the Pakistani Prime Minister assured during a telephonic conversation with the Saudi Crown Prince on February 28.
The defence arrangement comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and reflects deepening military ties between Islamabad and Riyadh. Pakistani officials have maintained that the cooperation framework is intended to bolster mutual defence and maintain regional security in the Gulf.
