SOURCE: AFI
The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) is set to replace the U.S.-origin AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles on its F-16 Block-15/30 MLU fleet with Turkish-manufactured alternatives. The decision comes after the United States delayed approval of Pakistan’s request for a new arms deal, a situation exacerbated by geopolitical and historical complications.
To address its air-to-air missile requirements, the PAF has turned to Turkey’s homegrown missile systems. The Gökdo?an, a long-range beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM), and the Bozdo?an, a short-range air-to-air missile (SRAAM), are being integrated into the older F-16 fleet. These missiles, developed by Turkey’s Scientific and Technological Research Council (TÜB?TAK SAGE), are designed to be compatible with NATO-standard platforms like the F-16, making them an attractive alternative for Pakistan.
Gökdo?an (BVRAAM) is Equipped with advanced radar guidance and a dual-pulse rocket motor, the Gökdo?an is capable of engaging enemy aircraft at extended ranges with high accuracy. Bozdo?an (SRAAM) is A heat-seeking missile with high agility, the Bozdo?an is designed for dogfight scenarios, providing a modern replacement for the AIM-9 Sidewinder.
Pakistan’s F-16 Block-15 fleet, consisting of around 57 aircraft, has faced difficulties in securing newer armaments due to restrictions imposed by the United States. The use of AMRAAMs by the PAF against India after the Balakot incident in 2019 has reportedly strained U.S.-Pakistan defense relations.
These missiles were originally supplied under U.S. aid packages intended for counter-terrorism and border security operations during the Afghanistan war. Their use in conventional combat operations against India raised concerns in Washington about potential misuse of supplied weaponry.
Furthermore, the aging Block-15 F-16s require upgrades to support the latest U.S. missile systems, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. Turkey and Pakistan share strong defense ties, with multiple collaborations across various domains. The decision to integrate Turkish air-to-air missiles into the PAF’s arsenal further deepens this partnership. For Turkey, the deal showcases the growing maturity of its indigenous defense industry, while for Pakistan, it provides a viable solution to address its armament needs amid a challenging geopolitical landscape.