RAWALPINDI: Strengthening the all-weather strategic partnership, Pakistan and Turkiye have signed a comprehensive agreement to jointly produce crewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) and next-generation electronic warfare systems. The signing ceremony took place at the Ministry of Defense on Friday, attended by high-ranking military officials and defense attaches from both nations.
The agreement focuses on technology transfer, enabling Pakistan to manufacture sophisticated tactical drones locally. This move is seen as a significant leap toward self-reliance in defense production. “This collaboration is a testament to the deep-rooted brotherly ties between Islamabad and Ankara. It ensures that our defense capabilities remain at the cutting edge of modern warfare,” a senior official from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.
Defense analysts suggest that the regional security landscape has made such partnerships essential. With the increasing use of drone technology in modern conflicts, Pakistan’sPakitan’son indigenous production will reduce dependency on Western suppliers. “the turkish defense industry is one of the most innovative in the world. By co-producing these systems, Pakistan not only secures its borders but also opens doors for defense exports,” Saad,” a retired Air Force official.
The project also includes establishing a joint research and development (R&D) center in Kamra. This center will focus on integrating artificial intelligence into aerial surveillance. Turkish officials expressed confidence in the technical skills of Pakistani engineers, stating that this partnership would serve as a model for South-South cooperation.
Work on the production facility is expected to commence immediately, with the joint-venture drone’s prototype scheduled for flight testing by late 2026. Security measures at the production sites have been heightened following the signing of the accord.
