Pakistan’s defense industry showcased an impressive range of locally manufactured military hardware at the IDEAS 2024 arms exhibition in Karachi. The four-day event, held from November 19 to 22, brought together 557 exhibitors, including 333 foreign participants from 53 countries. Türkiye led the international presence with 30 companies showcasing advanced innovations.
Aiming to boost arms exports to $500 million annually within five years, Pakistan currently sells military equipment, including drones, tanks, jets, and infantry weapons, worth over $200 million annually to about 40 countries, primarily in the Middle East and South Asia.
A Defense Ministry official disclosed that multiple bilateral defense agreements are anticipated in the coming months. Several nations have already expressed interest in Pakistan’s military products, particularly drones and fighter jets.
In a significant collaboration, Pakistan and Türkiye agreed to strengthen ties in the steel and manufacturing sectors. Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan met Ismail Demir, Chairman of KARDEMİR, to discuss trade and technological partnerships aimed at bolstering their steel industries.
Advancing Domestic Defense Capabilities
Pakistan unveiled the Shahpar-III combat drone, developed by Global Industrial Defence Solutions (GIDS). This state-of-the-art UAV features an operational ceiling of 35,000 feet, a 24-hour endurance, and a range of weaponry, including bombs, missiles, and torpedoes.
Other showcased advancements included the domestically produced Haider Main Battle Tank, developed by Heavy Industries Taxila in collaboration with China’s NORINCO, and new sniper rifles like the PK-47. Models of JF-17 Thunder jets, Agosta submarines, and the Super Mushshak aircraft highlighted Pakistan’s growing defense capabilities.
The SR-3D radar, designed by the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park, and the GM 500 Turah stealth loitering munition attracted significant interest, with the latter expected to secure export deals.
