Islamabad, May 19 (V7N) — Pakistan has reportedly deployed around 8,000 troops, a squadron of fighter jets and advanced air defense systems to Saudi Arabia under a bilateral defense agreement amid rising regional tensions linked to the Iran conflict.
According to a report published by Reuters on Monday (May 18), the deployment details were disclosed publicly for the first time, citing security and government sources from both countries.
Sources said Pakistan has deployed a full squadron of approximately 16 fighter aircraft, most of them being JF-17 Thunder jets jointly developed by Pakistan and China. The aircraft were reportedly sent to Saudi Arabia in early April.
In addition to the fighter squadron, Pakistan is said to have deployed two drone squadrons and approximately 8,000 military personnel as part of the agreement. Officials also indicated that additional troops could be sent if necessary.
The report further stated that Pakistan has positioned the Chinese-made HQ-9 air defense system in Saudi Arabia, with Pakistani personnel responsible for operating the equipment. Saudi Arabia is reportedly covering all associated operational costs.
Security officials also noted that the defense agreement includes provisions for the deployment of Pakistani naval vessels, although Reuters could not independently confirm whether any warships have already reached Saudi territory.
Neither the Pakistani military nor the Saudi government officially commented on the report.
Although the full terms of the defense pact signed last year remain undisclosed, both countries previously stated that they would support each other militarily if either nation came under attack.
Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif had earlier suggested that Saudi Arabia falls under Pakistan’s broader security framework through the agreement.
The development comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following recent confrontations involving Iran and concerns over regional escalation.
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