Pakistan Nears $1.5 Billion Arms Deal with War-Torn Sudan | Quick Digest

Pakistan Nears $1.5 Billion Arms Deal with War-Torn Sudan | Quick Digest
Pakistan is reportedly in the final stages of a $1.5 billion deal to supply weapons and jets, including Karakoram-8 aircraft and drones, to Sudan. This aims to bolster Sudan's army against the Rapid Support Forces amid a severe humanitarian crisis. Saudi Arabia is speculated to potentially facilitate the deal.

Pakistan is finalizing a $1.5 billion arms deal with Sudan.

Deal includes Karakoram-8 jets, over 200 drones, and air defence systems.

Aims to enhance Sudan's army capabilities against RSF.

Sudan's conflict has created a severe humanitarian crisis.

Saudi Arabia's financial backing or brokerage is under speculation.

Part of Pakistan's expanding global defence exports strategy.

Pakistan is reportedly in the final phases of a significant $1.5 billion deal to supply a range of military hardware, including weapons and jets, to Sudan. This agreement aims to substantially boost the Sudanese army's capabilities in its ongoing conflict against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The conflict in Sudan has unfortunately escalated into one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, drawing widespread international concern. The comprehensive arms package is understood to include 10 Karakoram-8 light attack aircraft, over 200 drones designated for scouting and kamikaze operations, and advanced air defense systems. Additionally, Super Mushshak training aircraft and potentially JF-17 fighter jets, jointly developed by Pakistan and China, are also part of the prospective deal. While Pakistan's military and defence ministry have not yet officially commented, a retired Pakistani air marshal, Aamir Masood, described it as a "done deal". Speculation surrounds the financing of this large-scale deal, with some sources suggesting that Saudi Arabia may play a role in facilitating or backing the procurement, possibly due to its strategic interest in the Red Sea region. However, direct financial payment from Saudi Arabia has not been confirmed. This potential deal highlights Pakistan's growing ambitions in the global defence export market, following other significant arms agreements, such as a reported $4 billion deal with Libya's National Army, which also includes JF-17 fighter jets. The increasing demand for Pakistan's defence products is seen as a crucial step towards securing long-term economic stability for the nation.
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