Islamabad, Pakistan – Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently confirmed the presence of Iranian military aircraft at an airbase in Balochistan. The official statement clarified that the aircraft were experiencing technical issues, necessitating a temporary stay at the facility. This admission followed a report by a US media outlet earlier this month, which had speculated on the nature and intent of the aircraft's presence.

The initial report from the US media outlet, "The Drive," had indicated the alleged presence of advanced Russian Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets at a Pakistani airbase, specifically mentioning Shahbaz Airbase in Jacobabad, Sindh, or an unspecified airbase in Balochistan. This report generated international attention due to the potential implications of Pakistan acquiring or hosting such advanced military hardware, particularly from a third country amidst ongoing geopolitical dynamics.

Responding to the circulating reports, senior Pakistani officials addressed the matter. While confirming the presence of Iranian military aircraft, they explicitly denied claims of Pakistan acquiring Su-35 fighter jets or offering permanent basing to Iranian forces. The officials underscored that the aircraft were not intended for long-term deployment or acquisition by Pakistan.

Key details from Pakistan's official explanation:

  • Nature of Aircraft: Iranian military aircraft.
  • Location: An airbase in Balochistan, Pakistan.
  • Reason for Presence: The aircraft encountered technical difficulties while in transit or during a routine mission.
  • Duration: The stay is temporary, pending the resolution of the technical issues.
  • Status: The aircraft are undergoing necessary maintenance and repair.

Pakistani authorities maintained that such temporary arrangements for military aircraft facing technical challenges are standard international practice between friendly nations. The government emphasized that the presence was purely for technical purposes and did not signify any strategic shift in Pakistan's defense procurement policies or its alliances.

The clarification from Islamabad aims to mitigate speculation regarding its foreign and defense policy, particularly concerning its relations with Iran and other global powers. Pakistan consistently adheres to a policy of maintaining balanced relationships with regional and international partners. The foreign ministry’s statement reaffirmed this stance, indicating that the situation does not represent a shift in the nation's non-aligned military procurement and foreign policy approach. Further updates are anticipated as the technical issues are resolved and the aircraft depart.