Pakistan has deployed about 8,000 troops, a squadron of fighter jets and an air defence system to Saudi Arabia. (File Photo)
Pakistan has deployed about 8,000 troops, a squadron of fighter jets and an air defence system to Saudi Arabia under a mutual defence agreement, according to security and government sources cited by Reuters.
The move comes amid an ongoing conflict between Iran and the US, even as Islamabad plays a role in mediation efforts.
Sources told Reuters the deployment includes around 16 JF-17 fighter aircraft, along with drones and a Chinese-made HQ-9 air defence system. They said the personnel operating the equipment are Pakistani, while Saudi Arabia is financing the deployment.
Role and purpose
Officials said the force is combat-capable and could support Saudi Arabia if it comes under attack.
At the same time, two security officials told Reuters the deployed personnel are expected to focus mainly on advisory and training roles during the current situation.
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“The deployment includes around 8,000 troops, with a pledge to send more if needed,” sources said. Existing presence and pact
The latest move adds to thousands of Pakistani troops already stationed in Saudi Arabia under earlier agreements.
One government source familiar with the deal told Reuters the defence pact allows for a much larger deployment if required. “It provides for the possibility of up to 80,000 Pakistani troops being deployed,” the source said.
The agreement, signed last year, requires both countries to support each other in case of an attack, though its full terms have not been made public.
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Wider military cooperation
Two security officials also said the arrangement may include the deployment of Pakistani naval assets, though it was not clear if any warships have reached Saudi Arabia.
Reuters earlier reported that Pakistan had sent jets to the kingdom after Iranian strikes on Saudi energy sites, which raised fears of a wider conflict.
The deployment comes even as Pakistan has taken on a diplomatic role in the crisis.
Islamabad has hosted talks between the United States and Iran and helped broker a ceasefire that has held for several weeks, according to Reuters.
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Pakistan has deployed about 8,000 troops, a squadron of fighter jets and an air defence system to Saudi Arabia. (File Photo) 
