SOURCE: AFI
India’s recent acquisition of the MQ-9B Reaper drones from the United States has set off a wave of analysis among defense experts in Pakistan. Prominent Pakistani defense analyst Bilal Khan notes that India’s procurement of high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) UAVs, such as the MQ-9B, may compel Pakistan to invest more in similar platforms, particularly for the Pakistan Navy (PN). Currently, Pakistan’s UAV fleet includes primarily medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) drones sourced from Turkey and China, and developed by its domestic defense industry. However, Pakistan lacks a comparable HALE UAV capability, which could create a strategic gap as India integrates these advanced drones into its military operations.
India’s acquisition of the MQ-9B Reapers, known for their endurance, altitude capabilities, and advanced surveillance systems, could significantly enhance its intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, particularly in maritime domains. These drones can operate at altitudes of up to 50,000 feet and remain airborne for over 24 hours, providing persistent ISR over wide areas, including critical maritime chokepoints and regions with high strategic interest. Pakistan’s current reliance on MALE UAVs, with relatively limited altitude and endurance capabilities compared to the MQ-9B, may create limitations in monitoring extended maritime areas or high-altitude regions.
The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has recently inducted Bayraktar Ak?nc? UAVs from Turkey’s Baykar Group, marking a notable advancement in Pakistan’s UAV arsenal. The Ak?nc?, Turkey’s most advanced UAV, boasts a payload capacity of 1,350 kg and can conduct a range of missions, including air-to-ground attack, ISR, and electronic warfare. Additionally, Pakistan has a diverse array of MALE UAVs sourced from Turkish, Chinese, and domestic suppliers, which provide significant ISR and strike capabilities across its land and maritime borders. However, these platforms lack the range, altitude, and endurance needed for comprehensive coverage over the Arabian Sea or extended land borders.
Analysts suggest that Pakistan may look to allies with experience in HALE UAV technology to address its capability gap. Here are some potential options:
Chinese HALE UAVs: China’s Wing Loong and CH-5 UAV families could offer Pakistan affordable HALE capabilities. These drones have demonstrated high-altitude endurance, robust ISR systems, and compatibility with various munitions, making them versatile choices for Pakistan’s needs.
Domestic Development: Pakistan’s defense industry has made strides in UAV technology, particularly in MALE systems. Although a fully indigenous HALE platform might be a longer-term project, expanding domestic expertise could eventually lead to a HALE UAV that meets Pakistan’s specific operational requirements.
Further Collaboration with Turkey: Turkey has been a major UAV supplier to Pakistan, and future collaboration on a HALE platform could benefit both countries. Turkey’s experience with drones like the Ak?nc? and its growing expertise in UAV technology may make it a valuable partner for Pakistan in developing or procuring HALE UAVs.
Other International Options: While Pakistan could consider other allies, such as Russia, for HALE UAVs, strategic alignment and technological compatibility would play significant roles in the selection process.
A major driving factor for Pakistan’s HALE UAV considerations is the Pakistan Navy’s need for persistent ISR capabilities over the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. The MQ-9B acquisition by India potentially strengthens the Indian Navy’s maritime domain awareness, posing challenges for Pakistan’s own surveillance and operational planning. A HALE UAV could enable the Pakistan Navy to conduct extended patrols, monitor maritime traffic, and maintain a near-continuous presence in contested waters.