Pakistan Deploys 8,000 Troops and 16 Fighter Jets to Saudi Arabia Amid West Asia Tensions

Pakistan has expanded its military deployment in Saudi Arabia under the Joint Strategic Defence Agreement signed between the two countries last year, amid rising tensions in West Asia.

The deployment reportedly includes around 8,000 Pakistani troops, a squadron of fighter aircraft, air defence systems and anti-drone equipment stationed across the kingdom as part of efforts to enhance regional security coordination and operational preparedness.

According to sources, the Pakistani contingent includes nearly 16 JF-17 fighter jets, jointly developed with China, which were deployed to Saudi Arabia earlier this year along with surveillance and logistical support assets.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defence had confirmed on April 11 that a Pakistani military contingent arrived at King Abdulaziz Air Base in the Eastern Sector under the bilateral defence agreement. The ministry said the move was aimed at strengthening military cooperation, improving combat readiness and supporting regional stability.

Security sources said personnel from the Pakistan Air Force, Navy and Army are operating in coordination with Saudi forces. Pakistan has also reportedly deployed advanced air defence systems, including the LY-80, FM-90 and Anza missile systems, which are currently being operated by Pakistani military personnel in Saudi Arabia.

Additional movement of Pakistan Air Force IL-78MP air tankers and cargo aircraft was reported in early March, indicating possible reinforcement and logistical support linked to the deployment.

Before the movement of the aircraft, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and reiterated Islamabad’s support for Saudi Arabia and Gulf nations amid the regional situation.

“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,” Sharif said during the conversation on February 28.

The development comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions in West Asia and reflects growing defence cooperation between Islamabad and Riyadh. Pakistani officials have maintained that the arrangement is aimed at strengthening mutual defence and ensuring regional security in the Gulf region.