Pakistan has deployed about 8,000 troops, a squadron of JF-17 fighter jets, drone units, and a Chinese-made HQ-9 air defence system to Saudi Arabia under a confidential mutual defence pact signed last year.
The deployment was confirmed by security and government sources who described it as a major combat-capable force aimed at supporting Saudi Arabia amid the ongoing regional conflict involving Iran.
The report stated that the fighter jets, mostly jointly produced JF-17 aircraft, were sent to Saudi Arabia in early April following Iranian strikes on Saudi energy infrastructure.
Two squadrons of drones were also reportedly deployed, while the HQ-9 air defence system is being operated by Pakistani personnel with Saudi financial backing.
Sources said the military mission goes far beyond a symbolic deployment. Although Pakistani officials reportedly described the role of the troops as advisory and training-related, the scale and sophistication of the deployment indicate preparations for possible direct support if Saudi Arabia faces additional attacks during the Iran conflict.
further report states that the defence agreement between Islamabad and Riyadh could allow for the deployment of as many as 80,000 Pakistani troops if necessary.
Some security officials also claimed the arrangement may include Pakistani naval assets, although it was unclear whether any warships had already reached Saudi waters.
Despite strengthening military ties with Saudi Arabia, Pakistan has simultaneously positioned itself as a mediator in the regional crisis.
Islamabad reportedly helped broker recent ceasefire talks between the United States and Iran while attempting to maintain diplomatic balance in the escalating Middle East conflict.
