Pakistan's Big Move: Selling Weapons to Sudan

Pakistan is close to finalizing a huge deal to sell weapons and aircraft to Sudan. This deal, worth $1. 5 billion, includes light attack jets, drones, and advanced air defense systems. The deal is expected to give Sudan's army a significant advantage in its ongoing conflict with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The conflict in Sudan has been going on for over two and a half years, causing a severe humanitarian crisis. Sudan is a key player in the region due to its strategic location and gold production. The Pakistani deal could help Sudan's army regain control of the airspace, which has been challenged by the RSF's use of drones.Pakistan's defence sector has been growing rapidly. Recently, Pakistan sold weapons worth over $4 billion to Libya. The country is also in talks with Bangladesh for a similar deal. This growth in the defence industry is seen as a way to boost Pakistan's economy, especially as it faces financial challenges and is under a $7 billion IMF program. The funding for the Sudan deal is unclear, but there are speculations that Saudi Arabia might be involved. Saudi Arabia has been trying to mediate the conflict in Sudan and has had discussions with Sudan's army chief. However, there is no confirmation that Saudi Arabia is paying for the weapons. The deal is a big step for Pakistan's defence industry, which has been gaining attention and investment. It also highlights the complex relationships and conflicts in the Middle East, where countries like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE are involved in various ways.