Indonesia, Pakistan Near Major Defence Deal: JF-17 Jets, Killer Drones on Table

• Indonesia's Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin met Pakistan's Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu in Islamabad to discuss a potential defence deal.
• The deal reportedly includes the sale of JF-17 combat jets, jointly developed by Pakistan and China, and killer drones for surveillance and striking targets.
• Sources indicate talks are in an advanced stage, potentially involving over 40 JF-17 jets, air defence systems, and training for Indonesian air force officials.
• Indonesia is looking to replace its ageing air force fleet and has previously ordered Rafale and KAAN jets, and is considering China's J-10 and US-made F-15EX jets.
• Pakistan is actively pursuing defence deals with several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Bangladesh, and previously a $4-billion pact with the Libyan National Army.

Why It Matters: Indonesia and Pakistan are in advanced talks for a significant defence deal involving JF-17 jets and killer drones.