Pakistan Libya have pledged to deepen defence cooperation following a high-level meeting in Islamabad, marking a follow-up to a major arms agreement signed in December.
Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir met Libyan commander Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi on Monday, February 2, 2026. The discussions focused on regional security and military collaboration, with Munir reaffirming support for Libya’s stability.
Asim Munir Khalifa Haftar Meeting Highlights
The Asim Munir Khalifa Haftar meeting underscored commitments to enhance Pakistan Libya defence ties. According to an official statement from Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations, both leaders exchanged views on mutual interests, emphasising professional cooperation between their armed forces.
Field Marshal Munir welcomed the delegation, which included Libya’s eastern-based Prime Minister Osama Saad Hammad. He stressed Pakistan’s dedication to peace and institutional development in Libya. The meeting occurred in a cordial atmosphere, reflecting longstanding relations between the two nations.
This engagement follows Munir’s visit to Benghazi in December 2025, where a defence pact was finalised. The Asim Munir Khalifa Haftar meeting builds on that foundation, aiming to implement agreed initiatives.
Pakistan Libya Military Deal Details
The Pakistan Libya military deal, signed during the December visit, involves supply of military equipment. Reports indicate the agreement is valued at over USD 4 billion, positioning it as one of Pakistan’s largest export contracts.
Under the terms, Pakistan will provide 16 JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, co-developed with China, and 12 Super Mushshak trainer aircraft. Additional equipment covers air, land, and naval needs, with provisions for training and capacity building. Joint manufacturing is also envisaged.
The JF-17 Libya export marks the first such sale to an Arab nation. Deliveries are scheduled over the next two and a half years, starting from 2026.
Haftar announced the pact in December, stating: “We announce the launch of a new phase of strategic military cooperation with Pakistan.” His son, Lieutenant General Saddam Haftar, who signed the agreement, described it as a step to build Libyan forces to modern standards.
Munir, during the Benghazi talks, assured support, noting Pakistan’s readiness to assist without reliance on external powers.
Implications for Regional Security
Pakistan Libya defence ties hold significance for South Asia, where Pakistan seeks to expand its defence industry exports. The collaboration could boost Pakistan’s economy, generating revenue amid fiscal challenges. In 2025, Pakistan’s defence exports reached USD 500 million, with this deal potentially doubling future figures.
For Libya, divided since 2011, the pact strengthens eastern forces under Haftar. It aligns with efforts to stabilise the region, though international arms embargoes pose challenges. The United Nations maintains restrictions on arms transfers to Libya, requiring exemptions for such deals.
Pakistan has navigated similar exports carefully, complying with global norms. The Pakistan Libya military deal emphasises bilateral training, which could foster long-term partnerships beyond sales.
Analysts view the JF-17 Libya export as a milestone, showcasing Pakistan’s aerospace capabilities. The jets, equipped for multi-role operations, suit Libya’s security needs in contested areas.
Background
Libya has faced instability since the 2011 overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi. Two rival administrations exist: one in Tripoli, recognised internationally, and Haftar’s eastern-based forces controlling key oil regions.
Pakistan has historically maintained neutral ties with Libya, focusing on economic and cultural links. Defence engagement intensified in recent years, driven by mutual interests in counter-terrorism and maritime security.
Pakistan’s defence sector, led by entities like Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, produces the JF-17 for export. Previous sales include to Myanmar and Nigeria, but the JF-17 Libya export expands into North Africa.
The Asim Munir Khalifa Haftar meeting revives historical connections; Libya imported Pakistani arms in the 1970s. Current Pakistan Libya defence ties reflect evolving geopolitics, with Pakistan positioning itself as a reliable supplier.
South Asian nations monitor these developments. India, a competitor in defence markets, has supplied equipment to African states. Bangladesh and Sri Lanka benefit indirectly from regional stability affecting trade routes.
The Pakistan Libya military deal could influence energy ties, as Libya holds Africa’s largest oil reserves. Pakistan imports 20 percent of its oil from the Middle East and Africa, potentially securing favourable terms through defence pacts.
What’s Next
Future steps in Pakistan Libya defence ties include timelines for equipment delivery and joint exercises. Training programmes for Libyan personnel may commence in Pakistan by mid-2026.
Both sides plan regular consultations to monitor progress. Potential expansions could cover cybersecurity and intelligence sharing.
The collaboration aims to contribute to Libya’s unification efforts, supporting international dialogues. Pakistan advocates for inclusive solutions in global forums.
As implementation advances, Pakistan Libya defence ties may evolve into a comprehensive strategic partnership, benefiting both nations’ security architectures.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 3rd, 2026
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