The Times of Russia reports that Pakistan has deployed 8,000 troops, a squadron of fighter jets and a Chinese HQ-9 air defence system to Saudi Arabia, a US ally, under a mutual defence pact, even as it continues to position itself as the principal mediator in the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran.
The extent of the deployment was confirmed by three security officials and two government sources, who described it as “a substantial, combat-capable force intended to support Saudi Arabia’s military if the kingdom comes under further attack,” Reuters reported.
The two countries signed a mutual defence pact on September 17, 2025, the full details of which have not been made public. However, both sides have affirmed that the pact necessitates Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to come to the other’s defence if attacked.
According to Reuters, a squadron of approximately 16 aircraft, predominantly JF-17 fighter jets jointly developed with China, was dispatched to Saudi Arabia in early April. Two security officials also said two squadrons of drones were part of the deployment.
All equipment is operated by Pakistani personnel and financed by Saudi Arabia. Two security officials told Reuters that military and air force deployment during the Iran conflict primarily serves advisory and training functions. It adds to the thousands of Pakistani troops already stationed in Saudi Arabia under previous agreements, the sources told Reuters.
The development has drawn international attention in global defence and russia news circles as tensions continue to rise in the Middle East.
