Cash-trapped Pakistan recently suffered a major diplomatic and economic setback as it scrapped a mega arms and fighter jet deal with Sudan. According to media reports, the deal, worth $1.5 billion (approximately Rs 14,000 crore) to supply weapons and jets to the North African country, was put on hold. The move followed strong objections from Saudi Arabia and a threat to halt funding of the purchase. The development has raised questions about Pakistan’s credibility in the global defense market, thereby indicating the influence of Riyadh on its foreign policy.
Why was the mega arms and fighter jet deal stalled?
Reuters first reported that an arms and fighter jet deal with Sudan is in its final stages as of January. It was brokered by Saudi Arabia, but no financing from Riyadh was disclosed during that time. The deal was one of the major defense sales negotiated by the Pakistani army after its fighter and weapon systems rose to prominence following skirmishes with India in May 2025.
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Why does Saudi Arabia’s objection matter?
Saudi Arabia is one of Pakistan’s closest allies. It funds critical loans to save Islamabad’s crippling economy. The ties between the two countries have deepened since the signing of a ‘mutual defence pact’ last year. Under the agreement, aggression against either will be treated as an attack on both.
According to sources, Saudi Arabia has signaled that Pakistan should terminate the deal. Since Islamabad itself is in a financial crisis, completing the deal with Sudan without Riyadh’s funding would be impossible.
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Western Intervention
Some Western countries have reportedly advised Saudi Arabia to distance itself from the proxy wars that are underway in Africa. Following this, Riyadh has made significant changes in its strategy. Not only Sudan, but Islamabad $4 billion deal with the Libyan National Army is also under threat as Saudi Arabia has placed its regional strategy under reconsideration.
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