The Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) signed in Riyadh on 17 September 2025 marks a new chapter in Saudi-Pakistani military relations. The pact was endorsed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistani Premier Shahbaz Sharif, with Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir present. This agreement arises amid complex regional dynamics and long-standing mutual suspicions. It reflects a cautious yet hopeful attempt to deepen defence cooperation in Southwest Asia.
Historical Context of Saudi-Pakistan Defence Ties
Saudi-Pakistan defence relations began in 1951. The peak period was 1979-1989 when Pakistan deployed nearly 20,000 troops to protect Saudi Arabia’s holy sites and counter threats from Iran and Yemen. However, tensions arose due to differences in command and troop composition, especially Saudi refusal to allow Shia soldiers. By 1990, Pakistani forces withdrew. Since then, Pakistan limited its role to guarding the holy shrines and declined involvement in other Saudi conflicts.
Geostrategic Motivations Behind the SMDA
The current agreement is influenced by shifting alliances and regional threats. Saudi Arabia’s concerns include Iranian nuclear ambitions and instability in Yemen. Pakistan’s nuclear status adds strategic value. The United States has played a subtle role, encouraging closer ties to counterbalance Iran and maintain Gulf security. The SMDA also responds to diminished US security guarantees following Israeli strikes on GCC members and rising regional tensions.
Challenges in Saudi-Pakistan Military Cooperation
Several hurdles remain. Saudi Arabia prefers minimal foreign troop presence to avoid political unrest. Past experiences with foreign forces, including US and NATO troops, caused religious and social tensions. Pakistan’s close ties with China and its own regional conflicts limit full military alignment. Transfer of nuclear weapons or technology to Saudi Arabia remains unlikely but cannot be entirely dismissed. Pakistan’s strategic interests are asymmetrical, focusing on economic aid and avoiding direct conflict with Iran or Israel.
Implications for Regional Security and India
The SMDA impacts the wider South Asian and Middle Eastern security landscape. India, a major Saudi trade partner and oil importer, maintains strong diplomatic and defence ties with Riyadh. Saudi Arabia continues to balance relations between India and Pakistan, acknowledging India’s nuclear power status. India’s strategic position and economic influence help it retain a role in regional stability. The agreement prompts India to enhance maritime and intelligence cooperation across the Arabian Sea to safeguard its interests.
Future Outlook of the SMDA
The SMDA is likely to result in limited Pakistani military presence in Saudi Arabia compared to the past. It serves more as a political signal than a full-scale strategic alliance. Pakistan aims to leverage the agreement for economic benefits and defence modernization. Saudi Arabia seeks to strengthen its security without provoking internal dissent. The pact reflects cautious pragmatism amid volatile regional geopolitics.
Questions for UPSC:
- Taking example of the Saudi-Pakistan Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement 2025, discuss the role of defence pacts in shaping regional security dynamics in Southwest Asia.
- Examine the impact of nuclear weapons on bilateral and multilateral defence agreements in South Asia and the Middle East.
- Analyse the challenges and opportunities in balancing diplomatic relations with rival states, with suitable examples from India’s approach to Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
- Critically discuss the influence of external powers like the United States and China on regional defence alliances and their implications for sovereignty and security.
