Pakistan has deployed around 8,000 troops, fighter jets, and air defence systems to Saudi Arabia under a mutual defence agreement between the two countries, according to security and government sources cited in reports.
The deployment reportedly includes a squadron of around 16 aircraft, mainly JF-17 fighter jets jointly developed by Pakistan and China. Two security officials also said Pakistan had sent two squadrons of drones and a Chinese HQ-9 air defence system.
According to the sources, the military equipment is being operated by Pakistani personnel and financed by Saudi Arabia.
The deployment comes at a time when Pakistan is also acting as a key mediator in the Iran conflict. Islamabad has previously hosted talks between the United States and Iran and helped broker a ceasefire between the two sides.
Three security officials and two government sources described the deployment as a substantial combat-capable force intended to support Saudi Arabia if the kingdom faces further attacks.
Officials said the troops and air force personnel deployed during the Iran conflict would mainly serve advisory and training roles, although thousands of Pakistani troops with combat responsibilities were already stationed in Saudi Arabia under earlier agreements.
One government source familiar with the defence pact said the confidential agreement allows for the deployment of up to 80,000 Pakistani troops in Saudi Arabia if required.
Two security officials also said the agreement covered the deployment of Pakistani warships, though it was unclear whether any had reached Saudi Arabia.
The reports said Pakistan increased its military support after Iranian strikes allegedly hit key Saudi energy infrastructure and killed a Saudi national, raising fears of a wider regional conflict.
Neither Pakistan’s military and foreign office nor Saudi authorities responded to requests for comment on the reported deployment.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have maintained close military ties for decades, with Riyadh often providing financial assistance to Islamabad during economic crises.