By News18.com
March 3, 2026, 3:25:45 PM IST
In a significant security move amid rising Middle East tensions, Pakistan has deployed air defence systems, troops, and military personnel to Saudi Arabia under the Pakistan-Saudi Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement, senior sources told CNN-News18.
Pakistani Air Defence Corps units have positioned LY-80, FM-90 and Anza-series medium- and short-range missiles under Pakistani command to reinforce Saudi air defences. Pakistani army, air force and naval personnel are operating in close coordination with Saudi forces, sources in both countries said.
Oversight of the deployments is being carried out under the supervision of former Pakistani Army Chief General Raheel Sharif, who also leads the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition of 43 nations, Saudi security sources confirmed.
Pakistani sources reported that two Pakistan Air Force IL-78MP tanker/cargo aircraft, registrations R11-003 and R09-001, were moved from Nur Khan Air Base to Karachi on March 1. These aircraft are believed to be ferrying reinforcements including troops, air defence systems, missiles and other strategic equipment to Saudi Arabia. Analysts say the movement may also support forward deployment for air patrols over the Arabian Sea and could involve JF-17 Thunder fighters within the strategic defence framework.
Ahead of the deployments, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on February 28, reiterating Pakistan’s support. “Pakistan stands in full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and our brotherly Gulf countries in this perilous time. We remain ready to play a constructive role for peace and pray that the blessings of Ramadan bring calm and stability to our region,” he said.
Officials say the deployment underscores Islamabad’s commitment to Gulf security and highlights strategic cooperation between the two countries as regional tensions escalate amid ongoing Middle East hostilities.
The movement of Pakistani air defence systems and personnel to Saudi Arabia is being closely watched internationally for its potential impact on regional stability and the wider security dynamics linked to the Iran-Israel conflict.
