Libya Eyeing Pakistani JF-17 Jet Purchase?

Libya is reportedly considering the acquisition of Pakistani-made JF-17 fighter jets under a defence package valued billions.

Defence Security Asia reported that Pakistan and Libya have “reportedly inked a $4.6 billion defence deal,” describing it as one of Pakistan’s largest export packages. The outlet said the agreement was finalised during Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir’s mid-December 2025 visit to Benghazi, where he met Libyan National Army (LNA) commander Field Marshal Khalifa Belqasim Haftar and signed a military cooperation framework at LNA headquarters.

The deal could include the supply of 16 to 18 JF-17 Thunder multirole fighter jets, alongside cooperation in training, capacity building, and counterterrorism, The Times of Islamabad wrote. The newspaper said talks focused on strengthening bilateral military ties as Libya seeks to modernise an air force that has remained fragmented since 2011.

Libya currently operates a limited mix of helicopters and ageing MiG and Mirage aircraft, leaving gaps in air policing, border security, and counter-insurgency roles. Pakistani media reports said the LNA is seeking suppliers outside traditional partners constrained by political conditions or sanctions.

The reported Libya talks face legal and political hurdles. Any weapons transfer would take place under the United Nations arms embargo imposed on Libya in 2011 and monitored by the European Union’s Operation Irini.

No official confirmation has been issued by Libya’s internationally recognised authorities in Tripoli or by Pakistan’s defence ministry.