Pakistan Deploys Combat Force to Saudi Arabia Under Mutual Defence Pact
Islamabad/Riyadh — Pakistan has deployed a substantial, combat-capable military force to Saudi Arabia under the terms of a mutual defence agreement signed last year, according to multiple security and government officials.
The deployment includes approximately 8,000 troops, a squadron of around 16 JF-17 fighter jets, two squadrons of drones, and a Chinese-made HQ-9 air defence system.
The equipment is operated by Pakistani personnel, but the entire deployment is financed by Saudi Arabia.
Key Details of the Deployment
Force Composition:
- ~8,000 troops
- 16 JF-17 fighter jets (one squadron)
- Two squadrons of drones
- Chinese HQ-9 air defence system
- Potential for naval assets: Two security officials said the agreement also involves the deployment of Pakistani warships, though Reuters could not independently confirm whether any had reached Saudi Arabia.
Operational Framework:
- The force is intended to support Saudi Arabia's military if the kingdom faces further attack.
- Two security officials stated that military and air force personnel will primarily have an advisory and training role.
- The deployment adds to thousands of Pakistani troops already stationed in Saudi Arabia under previous agreements.
The Defence Pact
The deployment is authorized under a mutual defence pact signed last year, which requires both countries to come to each other's defence in the event of an attack. The agreement reportedly allows for up to 80,000 Pakistani troops to be deployed to Saudi Arabia if needed.
Background and Regional Context
The deployment follows a period of heightened tensions after Iranian strikes hit key energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, killing a Saudi national.
Pakistan later emerged as a mediator in the Iran conflict, helping broker a ceasefire between the US and Iran.
Pakistan has long provided military support to Saudi Arabia, while Riyadh has provided financial support to Islamabad during periods of economic stress. This reciprocal relationship underpins the current strategic deployment.
Official Response
The three security officials and two government sources who described the deployment spoke on condition of anonymity. Pakistan's military and foreign office, as well as Saudi Arabia's government media office, did not respond to requests for comment.