Military Africa published on 5 January 2026 an article titled "Pakistan to Supply 16 JF-17s and 12 Super Mushshak Aircraft to Libyan Faction."
Pakistan signed a $4 billion deal with Khalifa Haftar's Libyan National Army (LNA) to supply advanced military hardware, including 16 JF-17 Thunder aircraft produced jointly by the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and China's Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group. The LNA controls the east and south of Libya, including critical oilfields. The LNA is a rival force to the United Nations-recognized Government of National Unity in Tripoli. The introduction of 16 JF-17s could radically alter the security landscape of North Africa.
The deal represents a sophisticated maneuver by Beijing to expand its influence in North Africa while avoiding direct violation of an arms embargo. By routing these sales through Pakistan, China can sidestep regulatory and political scrutiny that accompanies sales into sanctioned territory. Although the JF-17 incorporates Chinese radars, engines, and missiles, it is technically a Pakistani product. The LNA also has received Chinese drones and WRJ-Q02 anti-drone guns.
