Pakistan Claims Soaring JF-17 Demand Post-India Clash, Eyes IMF Freedom

• Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif claims global demand for JF-17 Thunder jets surged after a military confrontation with India last year.
• Asif asserts that if these deals materialize within six months, Pakistan will no longer require loans from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
• Pakistan attributes the demand to its alleged success in shooting down 6 Indian jets, including Rafales, during 'Operation Sindoor' in May 2025, a claim India rejects.
• A Bangladeshi defence delegation met Pakistan's Air Chief Marshal in Islamabad, considering JF-17 purchases and offered 'fast-track' Super Mushshak delivery.
• Despite Asif's confidence, experts doubt defence exports alone can resolve Pakistan's fragile economic situation and $7 billion IMF bailout.

Why It Matters: Pakistan's Defence Minister links increased JF-17 demand to India conflict, hoping to end IMF reliance, but economic reality remains challenging.