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Pakistan has unveiled its indigenously developed "HAIDER" main battle tank (MBT) in a ceremony attended by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Syed Asim Munir.
Developed by Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT), the HAIDER is a licensed variant of the Chinese VT-4 MBT, built with collaboration from China's NORINCO.
Domestic Production and Technology
The HAIDER project represents a significant step for Pakistan's defense manufacturing capabilities. The tank incorporates advancements in technology, with reported improvements in firepower, protection, and battlefield mobility.General Munir visited HIT, receiving briefings on the HAIDER tank's technical specifications and the status of Pakistan's domestic arms production capacity. He acknowledged the progress made in these areas and highlighted the HAIDER's importance within Pakistan's defense objectives.
Background and Context
The Pakistan Army operates the Chinese VT-4 MBT, acquired directly from China. The development of the HAIDER appears to be a strategic move following previous challenges with the Al-Khalid II MBT program.The Al-Khalid, based on the Chinese Type 90-II tank, had limited production. Challenges with obtaining key components from Ukraine contributed to restricting further development.
Observations
The HAIDER tank's introduction demonstrates Pakistan's focus on strengthening its defense capabilities through domestic development alongside collaboration with China.The project's long-term success will depend on Pakistan's ability to localize the production of essential components and subsystems.