Malaysia mulling options to purchase Pakistan's JF-17 Thunder jet

ISLAMABAD: Malaysia is mulling options to purchase Pakistan's indigenously built multi-role JF-17 Thunder fighter jet.

"This jet fighter is considered an excellent production of Pakistan in the defence sector and decision about the number (of purchases) would be taken very soon," Malaysian High Commissioner Dr Hasrul Sani bin Mujtabar was quoted as saying by the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan.

Initially China provided the technology for the aircraft which is now completely built by Pakistan.

Pakistan has been trying to find buyers for the aircraft and several countries have expressed interest but so far no final deal has been signed with anyone.

Malaysia and Pakistan, he said, are enjoying excellent ties in the defence sector as a result of Joint Committee on Defence of both the sides which play role as an active forum.

Commenting on the multibillion-dollar economic corridor project, he said Pakistan is a blessed country with an important strategic position and it should take maximum advantage from this position for its development.