Pakistan finalised a major arms deal with Libya worth over USD 4 billion on Tuesday, December 23, 2025. The pact supplies advanced military equipment to the Libyan National Army (LNA). Four Pakistani officials confirmed details to international media. The agreement follows high-level talks in Benghazi between Field Marshal Asim Munir and LNA deputy commander Saddam Khalifa Haftar.
The Pakistan arms deal with Libya encompasses all three domains: land, sea, and air. It spans two and a half years. A pre-finalisation document lists 16 JF-17 Thunder multi-role fighter jets and 12 Super Mushshak trainer aircraft. Officials described the transaction as one of Pakistan’s largest-ever defence exports.
Key Components of the Pakistan-Libya JF-17 Deal
The Pakistan-Libya JF-17 deal highlights the JF-17 Thunder. Pakistan co-develops this aircraft with China. It serves as a cost-effective multi-role fighter. The platform features advanced avionics. It supports beyond-visual-range missiles. It offers precision-guided munitions. Pakistan markets itself outside Western supply chains.
The JF-17 has proven to be a reliable aircraft in operations. Recent conflicts demonstrated its capabilities. This enhances appeal for buyers seeking affordable options. The Block III variant includes active electronically scanned array radar. It adds electronic warfare suites. Helmet-mounted displays improve pilot effectiveness. The aircraft integrates modern data links. It allows seamless network-centric warfare. Export versions adapt to customer requirements. This flexibility drives global interest.
Pakistan Super Mushshak Libya Inclusion
The Pakistan Super Mushshak Libya component adds 12 trainer aircraft. The Super Mushshak supports basic pilot training. It handles light attack roles. The platform costs low per unit. It requires minimal maintenance. Pakistan exports it widely. It lays the foundation for the air forces of many nations.
The deal includes training programmes. Maintenance support extends longevity. Joint manufacturing elements feature in broader cooperation. LNA media announced strategic military ties. Khalifa Haftar highlighted new phases of cooperation on television. These elements strengthen operational readiness. They foster long-term technical collaboration.
Background on Libya’s Divided Landscape
Libya has faced division since the 2011 NATO intervention. It ousted Muammar Gaddafi. The UN-recognised Government of National Unity holds western areas. Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah leads it. The LNA controls the east and south. It secures major oilfields. Khalifa Haftar commands it.
A UN arms embargo has been in place since 2011. It requires Security Council approval for transfers. Reports note ineffective enforcement. Foreign states supply both sides. Pakistani officials view the embargo as largely ignored. Major powers continue deliveries. Violations occur across factions. This undermines stability efforts.
The Pakistan-Libya arms deal enhances the LNA’s capabilities. It shifts regional balances. Proxy influences compete in Libya. Oil resources drive interests. External actors back rival administrations. Peace talks stall repeatedly.
Pakistan’s Growing Defence Export Drive
Pakistan advances its defence industry. It spans aircraft production. Armoured vehicles feature prominently. Munitions and naval construction grow. Counterinsurgency experience aids exports. Recent India clashes showcased platforms. These demonstrations build credibility.
The Pakistan arms deal with Libya marks a milestone. It elevates Pakistan among conventional exporters. Financial impact supports the economy. Islamabad deepens Gulf ties. A Saudi defence agreement was signed in September 2025. Qatar talks progressed. Similar outreach targets other regions.
This Pakistan-Libya arms deal expands Pakistan’s presence in North Africa. It offers affordable alternatives. Training and manufacturing cooperation deepens ties. Export revenues fund further development. Domestic production scales up.
What’s Next for the Pakistan-Libya Arms Deal
Deliveries unfold over years. Logistical support ensures integration. International reactions emerge. The Tripoli government monitors developments. UN bodies assess embargo compliance. Potential challenges arise from sanctions monitoring.
The Pakistan-Libya JF-17 deal sets export precedents. Demand rises for Pakistani platforms. The Pakistan Super Mushshak Libya element builds training capacity. A broader Pakistan arms deal with Libya fosters a long-term partnership. Future contracts may follow.
Observers note shifting defence dynamics. Affordable suppliers gain ground. Non-Western options attract buyers. The forward-looking Pakistan-Libya arms deal signals sustained engagement. It positions Pakistan as a reliable partner in volatile regions. This cooperation could have a significant impact on broader Middle East and African markets.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, December 23rd, 2025
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