SOURCE: AFI
Pakistan’s defense industry is facing a significant setback as production of its Babur and Ra’ad cruise missile systems has reportedly come to a near standstill. The disruption stems from a halt in the supply of critical turbojet engines from Ukraine, a key supplier, due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. This development has raised concerns about Pakistan’s ability to maintain its strategic missile capabilities, which are central to its defense posture against regional rival India.
The Babur (Hatf-VII), a subsonic cruise missile developed by Pakistan’s National Defence Complex (NDC), and the Ra’ad air-launched cruise missile (ALCM), developed by the National Engineering & Science Commission (NESCOM), rely heavily on turbojet engines for their propulsion systems. The Babur, available in ground-launched (Babur-1, 1A, 1B, and 2) and submarine-launched (Babur-3) variants, has a range of up to 900 km and can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads. The Ra’ad (Ra’ad 1 and 2), designed for deployment from Pakistan Air Force (PAF) platforms like the JF-17 and Mirage aircraft, boasts ranges of 350 km and 600 km, respectively. These missiles are critical components of Pakistan’s strategic deterrence, designed to evade and penetrate enemy defenses.
According to reports circulating on X, the production of these missiles has been severely impacted due to Ukraine’s inability to supply turbojet engines, a consequence of the Russia-Ukraine conflict that began in February 2022. Ukraine, a historical supplier of defense equipment to Pakistan, including engines and spare parts for military platforms, has faced significant disruptions in its defense industry due to the war. The conflict has strained Ukraine’s manufacturing capabilities and supply chains, prioritizing domestic needs and NATO-aligned exports over other international commitments.
Pakistan’s reliance on Ukrainian turbojet engines highlights a vulnerability in its defense-industrial self-reliance strategy. While Pakistan has made strides in developing indigenous missile systems, the dependence on foreign suppliers for critical components like propulsion systems has exposed it to geopolitical risks. The Babur missile, initially developed by reverse-engineering U.S. Tomahawk missiles recovered in Pakistan during U.S. operations in Afghanistan in 1998, and the Ra’ad, designed for precision strikes, both require advanced turbojet engines to achieve their low-flying, terrain-hugging capabilities.
The halt in engine supplies has reportedly led to a near-complete cessation of Babur missile production, with similar challenges affecting the Ra’ad program. This disruption could limit Pakistan’s ability to replenish its missile stockpiles and maintain its strategic deterrence, particularly at a time of heightened tensions with India. Recent reports of military engagements, including drone exchanges and alleged air losses, underscore the critical role of these missile systems in Pakistan’s defense strategy.
Pakistan’s defense establishment is likely exploring alternatives to mitigate this crisis, including seeking new suppliers or accelerating efforts to develop indigenous engine technology. However, developing domestic turbojet capabilities is a complex and time-intensive process, requiring significant investment in research, infrastructure, and expertise. In the interim, Pakistan may face challenges in maintaining the operational readiness of its cruise missile arsenal.
The broader context of Pakistan-Ukraine relations adds complexity to the situation. Despite historical defense ties, including Ukraine’s supply of T-80UD tanks and other equipment to Pakistan, Islamabad has maintained a neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Reports indicate that Pakistan has supplied ammunition and arms to Ukraine, often through NATO intermediaries, to secure economic support, such as an IMF bailout facilitated by the U.S. However, these transactions have not translated into prioritized engine supplies, as Ukraine’s defense industry remains heavily focused on supporting its own war effort.
The production halt underscores the fragility of Pakistan’s defense supply chain amid global geopolitical shifts. As the Russia-Ukraine war continues to disrupt international arms markets, Pakistan faces the challenge of balancing its strategic needs with its economic and diplomatic constraints. The PAF’s recent decision to relocate its No. 53 AEW Squadron from PAF Base Bholari to PAF Base Samungli following an attack on May 10, 2025, further highlights the need for secure and resilient defense infrastructure.
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