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Pakistan has unveiled a significantly upgraded version of its Shahpar Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV), boasting superior capabilities and cost-effectiveness compared to the popular Turkish Bayraktar TB2 and Chinese CH-4 drones.
The announcement came during a recent demonstration for military officials from 11 allied nations.
Global Industrial & Defence Solutions (GIDS), the Pakistani state-owned defence company responsible for the Shahpar II, showcased the drone's enhanced capabilities in a live-fire exercise.
The UCAV, designated as a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) platform, successfully engaged ground targets with its "Burq" air-to-ground guided missile from an altitude of 14,000 feet.
Improved Endurance and Capabilities
The Shahpar II represents a substantial upgrade over the earlier Shahpar-I model. GIDS officials tout increased endurance, with the drone capable of 20 hours of flight time for surveillance missions and 14 hours for offensive operations.During the demonstration, Pakistani officials asserted the Shahpar II's superiority to both the Bayraktar TB2 and the CH-4 – drones currently in service with the Pakistani military. The claim highlights potential competition within Pakistan's existing UCAV arsenal.
Satellite Communications and Cost-Effectiveness
The Shahpar II incorporates a SATCOM satellite communication system. This provides a critical advantage in long-distance operations and allows the drone to conduct maximum-range missions with real-time communication to ground control stations.Additionally, GIDS officials emphasize the drone's cost-effectiveness compared to its rivals.
Implications
The unveiling of the enhanced Shahpar II signals Pakistan's increasing investment in indigenous drone technology.With claims of superior capability and lower costs compared to existing internationally sourced drones, the Shahpar II has the potential to reshape Pakistan's drone strategy.
Its success could lead to greater reliance on domestically developed systems and increased export potential for Pakistan's defence industry.