In the ever-evolving global security environment, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have emerged as a cornerstone of modern-day defence to exercise strategic leverage and stay at the forefront of the battlefield. Cognizant of the strategic value of drones, Pakistan has also taken significant strides in the production and acquisition of UAVs, evident from the unveiling of Shahpar-III at the International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) 2024.
Shahpar-III, as indicative from the name, is the third generation of Shahpar UAV series produced by Pakistan’s state-owned Global Industrial Defence Solutions (GIDS).
Although Shahpar-III represents Pakistan’s growth in defence capabilities and pursuit of self-reliance, it also invites serious consideration regarding its deployment capability and integration with Pakistan’s existing UAV inventory, which includes advanced platforms like Chinese Wing Loong, Turkish Akinc and Bayraktar TB-2. Whether the newest edition of the indigenous UAV stands in the same annals as these other platforms can only be ascertained once it becomes operational.
The deployment of stand-off range weapons (SOWs) such as the Rasoob 250, an air-launched cruise missile, and the AZB-81LR, a small-diameter bomb, enables strike capabilities with the ability to dissipate the launch point from the target
Considering its capabilities, Shahpar-III is a Group 4 class Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) UAV with a Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) of up to 1650 kg, making it a plausible solution for various missions. It has two engine configuration variants,140 HP and 170 HP, and has a capacity of 400-500 kg payload, spread across six hard points. The deployment of stand-off range weapons (SOWs) such as the Rasoob 250, an air-launched cruise missile, and the AZB-81LR, a small-diameter bomb, enables strike capabilities with the ability to dissipate the launch point from the target. Combined with this capability, the use of SOWs presents a threat to high value targets in traditional warfare.
Shahpar-III turns out to be an invaluable asset for precision strikes and undertaking ISTAR i.e., intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance against hostile activities
Due to advanced flight technology and sensor systems that are domestically produced in Pakistan, Shahpar-III aligns with the characteristics of other MALE drones in the market. It provides communications intelligence (COMINT) and electronic intelligence (ELINT) via Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and electronic support measure (ESM). For beyond line-of-sight (BLoS) purpose up to 3000km, satellite communication (SATCOM) can be used. As a result, Shahpar-III turns out to be an invaluable asset for precision strikes and undertaking ISTAR i.e., intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance against hostile activities.
This UAV is lauded high for the ability to meet different operational requirements. For example, in terms of maritime domain, Eghraaq, an ultra-lightweight torpedo (ULWT) could pair with the Shahpar-III which would enhance Pakistan Navy anti-submarine warfare capabilities. This is especially important for offsetting the imbalance presented by India’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean region (IOR) and the use of sea guardian, MQ-9B, drones for surveillance. With similar endurance as well as extended ISTAR ability, Shahpar-III can perform similar tasks for prolonged patrols and surveillance.
Chinese Wing Loong-II having 4200 kg MTOW is another UAV pre-eminently used for surveillance and reconnaissance
While Shahpar-III is a prospective supplement to Pakistan’s UAV fleet, its strength and usability needs to be considered in light of the country’s other existing inventory. This includes Turkish Akinci with MTOW 5500 kg, 40,000 feet cruising altitude, 24-hour endurance and precision guided munitions. With demonstrated capabilities in Russia-Ukraine war, Bayraktar TB-2 is another battle worthy UAV that is already part of the Pakistani arsenal. In addition, Chinese Wing Loong-II having 4200 kg MTOW is another UAV pre-eminently used for surveillance and reconnaissance. Together, the existing UAVs not only enhance Pakistan’s air power but also set a benchmark for Shahpar-III to live up to. Compared to its counterparts, this new UAV still offers prospects an indigenous reliable operational performance and relative effectiveness.
Another challenge lies in with the Shahpar-III’s incorporation into the military structure of Pakistan. It is because the deployment of this UAV depends upon its interoperability and adaptability with current UAVs in Pakistani fleet. The established players such as Turkey, China, US, and the Israel saturates the global UAV market. Therefore, without forfeiting performance, Shahpar-III has to offer an appealing, cost-effective and comprehensive solution. For Pakistan’s indigenous technological prowess, irrefutably, Shahpar-III is a major breakthrough. But, it compels a cohesive and larger plan for its marketability for foreign militaries.
Pakistan can establish a versatile and resilient UAV fleet by harnessing the capabilities and strengths of both indigenously developed and foreign drones
To strike a balance between procurement of foreign UAVs vis-à-vis indigenisation, Pakistan’s UAV strategy has to be directed by definite strategic imperatives. The reason is that, while the development of Shahpar-III highlights Pakistan’s efforts towards self-reliance and long term security objectives, advanced UAVs from allied countries give operational flexibility to address emerging challenges of modern warfare. This way, Pakistan can establish a versatile and resilient UAV fleet by harnessing the capabilities and strengths of both indigenously developed and foreign drones.
For Pakistan’s defensive posture, Shahpar-III reflects a significant technological milestone as well as country’s testament to innovation, adaptability, and strategic thinking. However, to determine its impact on national security and defence exports, its integration in the operational frameworks would be critical in the pursuit of next generation drone warfare.
Disclaimer:The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author. They do not represent the views, beliefs, or policies of the Stratheia.
