ISTANBUL, Tuesday, April 21, 2026 (WNP): Somalia has finalized a landmark defence agreement with Pakistan for the procurement of up to 24 JF-17 Thunder Block III fighter jets, in a deal reportedly valued at $900 million, according to the Turkish Defence Agency.

The agreement is being described as one of the most ambitious military acquisition programs undertaken by Somalia in recent decades, marking a significant step toward modernizing its armed forces.

The JF-17 Thunder Block III variant is regarded as a new-generation multi-role combat aircraft, equipped with advanced avionics, state-of-the-art radar systems, and enhanced operational capabilities designed for modern warfare environments.

Defence analysts note that the acquisition forms a central pillar of Somalia’s broader strategy to restructure and strengthen its air force, particularly in enhancing surveillance, deterrence, and regional air defence capacity.

The development also underscores growing defence cooperation between Pakistan and Somalia, reflecting Islamabad’s expanding footprint in the global defence export market.

While further details regarding delivery timelines and training arrangements remain undisclosed, the deal is expected to significantly boost Somalia’s aerial capabilities amid evolving security dynamics in the Horn of Africa.