Pakistan Air Force (PAF) developing indigenous UAVs to strengthen defense capabilities
The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) is advancing efforts to indigenously develop unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) integrated with artificial intelligence (AI) to operate alongside manned fighter jets in future combat scenarios, a senior PAF official disclosed on Thursday.
This announcement coincided with the
launch of Pakistan’s latest drone, Shahpar-III, unveiled at the 12th
International Defense Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS-2024) at the Karachi Expo
Centre. The four-day event, running from November 19-22, concludes today.
AI-Based UAV Development
Air Commodore Dr. Salman Aslam, head of the Central Ward Intelligence and
Computing Division at PAF, revealed details of the project during an interview
at IDEAS-2024. Initiated four years ago, the program aims to achieve
“manned-unmanned teaming,” a strategy where AI-powered UAVs work in tandem with
manned fighter aircraft.
“The future of air combat lies in
combining manned and unmanned platforms,” Dr. Aslam said. “An AI-driven system
could control a swarm of unmanned aircraft—whether 15, 100, or even
1,000—operating collaboratively with human pilots.”
Read More Pakistan
Air Force looking to upgrade the ageing fleets
While no definite timeline exists
for the deployment of such advanced systems, Dr. Aslam noted it might take
anywhere between 10 to 30 years for full integration. Responding to theoretical
discussions about fully autonomous fleets of AI-driven warplanes, he
acknowledged the ongoing global debate. “Some believe it’s achievable, while
others remain skeptical,” he added.
JF-17 Block-3 Showcased
The PAF also exhibited its third-generation JF-17 Block-3 fighter jet at
IDEAS-2024. A PAF officer highlighted the advanced features of the aircraft,
noting its state-of-the-art avionics designed for high-tech aerial combat in
all-weather conditions.
“The JF-17 Block-3 is equipped to
carry modern weaponry, including beyond-visual-range missiles, agile short-range
infrared missiles, air-to-sea and anti-radiation missiles, and laser-guided
munitions,” the officer said.
The JF-17 gained international
recognition after downing two Indian aircraft during a 2019 skirmish, further
bolstering its reputation as a versatile and formidable platform.
Read More Pakistan
to convert Bombardier Global 6000 into jamming aircraft
Launch of Shahpar-III Drone
The IDEAS-2024 event also marked the formal launch of the Shahpar-III
drone by Global Industrial & Defense Solutions (GIDS-Pakistan). CEO Asad
Kamal highlighted the drone’s advanced capabilities, stating it rivals Turkey’s
leading UAV technologies.
The Shahpar-III can operate
at altitudes of up to 30,000 feet for 12-16 hours and is armed with six weapon
slots—three on each wing. “It’s a dual-purpose platform, equally adept at
surveillance and precision strikes,” Kamal explained.
The drone can detect and engage
targets within a 25 to 1,000-kilometre range, making it effective for
air-to-ground and air-to-sea operations. “It can locate and neutralize threats,
whether concealed in buildings or underwater,” he added.
Read More Pakistan
introduces new drone policy to ensure air safety
Strategic Vision for AI and UAV
Integration
The PAF’s AI-driven UAV project, coupled with advancements like the Shahpar-III
and JF-17 Block-3, signals a strategic shift toward self-reliance and
modernization in aerial warfare. As the PAF continues to innovate, its focus
remains on leveraging cutting-edge technologies to maintain air superiority in
future combat scenarios.
Source: Express
Tribune