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Pakistan's $4 Billion Warplane Deal Expands China's Influence

12/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Pakistan is selling 16 JF-17 Thunder warplanes, developed with China, to the Libyan National Army (LNA) in a deal over US$4 billion.
The package includes 12 Super Mushak trainer aircraft.
The JF-17 has previously been sold to Myanmar and Nigeria.
Analysts say the deal could boost China's influence in North Africa.
Experts view it as a strategy for China to expand its reach via defense partnerships, disguised as Pakistani exports.

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Story summary

Pakistan is selling 16 JF-17 Thunder warplanes, developed with China, to the Libyan National Army (LNA) in a deal over US$4 billion.
The package includes 12 Super Mushak trainer aircraft.
The JF-17 has previously been sold to Myanmar and Nigeria.
Analysts say the deal could boost China's influence in North Africa.
Experts view it as a strategy for China to expand its reach via defense partnerships, disguised as Pakistani exports.