Reports suggest that the Federal Government of Somalia is exploring the acquisition of JF-17 fighter aircraft as part of a broader package of military assistance discussed with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

According to sources with knowledge of the discussions, Riyadh requested that Mogadishu formally submit a list of priority defense requirements it seeks Saudi support for. The proposal to acquire JF-17 aircraft is understood to be among the key items under consideration. The sources add that Saudi Arabia has agreed in principle, with the arrangement expected to be formalised during an anticipated meeting between Somalia’s President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Saudi Arabia has recently stepped up its diplomatic and strategic engagement with Somalia, amid evolving regional alignments. Analysts note that Riyadh has increasingly coordinated its position with a Turkey-led bloc that opposes emerging political initiatives linked to the United Arab Emirates, Israel, and their regional partners.

The aircraft under discussion are JF-17 Thunder multirole fighter jets, jointly developed by Pakistan and China. Somalia is reportedly seeking the Block III variant, the most advanced version of the platform. Sources indicate that the discussions may also include a second phase involving the potential acquisition of naval combat vessels.

Observers point out that the presence of Turkish military aircraft in Somalia has demonstrated a growing openness among international partners to support the rebuilding of Somalia’s air and maritime capabilities, encouraging other states to consider similar forms of cooperation.

The estimated cost of a single JF-17 aircraft ranges between 25 million and 30 million US dollars. Pilot training typically requires one to two years, with further advanced training needed before personnel are considered fully operational.

In Africa, Nigeria is currently the only country operating the JF-17. Should the deal proceed, Somalia would become the second African state to deploy the aircraft. The JF-17 has drawn increased international attention following its operational use during recent hostilities between Pakistan and India, which analysts say contributed to heightened global interest in the platform.

Neither the Somali government nor Saudi authorities have issued official statements confirming the reports. Nevertheless, defence analysts view the potential acquisition as a notable development in Somalia’s long-term efforts to rebuild its armed forces and enhance national defence capacity after decades of conflict and institutional degradation.