Pakistan has deployed 8000 troops, a squadron of fighter jets, and a surface-to-air missile system to Saudi Arabia as part of a mutual defense pact signed in 2025. Reuters reports, citing security and government sources, that this deployment represents a significant combat force intended to support the Saudi army in the event of further attacks.

The deployed contingent includes a full squadron of approximately 16 JF-17 fighter jets, co-produced with China, as well as two squadrons of unmanned aerial vehicles. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia has received a Chinese-made HQ-9 air defense system. All weapons are operated by Pakistani personnel but financed by the Saudis.

The agreement, the full terms of which are confidential, stipulates that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will defend each other in the event of an attack. Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif previously stated that the agreement places Saudi Arabia under the "nuclear umbrella" of Pakistan, the only Muslim country with nuclear weapons.

According to the agreement, the potential deployment of up to 80,000 Pakistani troops to Saudi Arabia is envisaged to jointly protect the kingdom's borders with Saudi Arabian forces. The scale and composition of the current deployment—combat aircraft, air defense assets, and thousands of troops—means Pakistan has sent far more than a symbolic or advisory mission.

The deployment occurred after Iranian strikes hit key Saudi Arabian energy infrastructure, killing a Saudi citizen. Despite serving as the primary mediator in the Iran-US conflict, Islamabad is increasing military cooperation with Riyadh. Experts note that Saudi Arabia, which for decades relied on the American military umbrella, is now receiving its own "nuclear insurance" from Pakistan.