
Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif claims a surge in global orders for the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet, following its perceived effectiveness in a May 2025 conflict with India, could eliminate the need for future International Monetary Fund (IMF) loans within six months. Asif cited significant deals with Libya, Azerbaijan, and potential agreements with Saudi Arabia and Iraq. Pakistan is currently under a $7 billion IMF program, having previously averted default with a $3 billion payout. Analysts suggest the jet's combat testing and cost-effectiveness are driving marketability.
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