Islamabad, Pakistan: The National Engineering and Scientific Commission (NESCOM) is making significant strides in developing Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), with their latest project, the Shahpar-III, boasting impressive capabilities. This domestically built drone boasts a 3,000 km range, 20-hour endurance, and a 530 kg payload capacity, solidifying Pakistan’s position in the MALE UAV market.
But the ambition doesn’t stop there. All three branches of the Pakistani military are actively seeking drone solutions to enhance their operations, exploring everything from Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) UAVs to loitering munitions and even unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs). This demand is driving the domestic industry to innovate and develop diverse solutions.
One potential future development is attritable unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) for the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). The PAF’s recent video highlighted their goal of developing “manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T)” capabilities, hinting at the integration of drones into various aspects of their operations. This concept encompasses a wide range of drones, from loitering munitions to jet-powered systems like flying-wing strike UCAVs and loyal wingman drones.
The PAF’s entry into next-generation MUM-T might involve acquiring or developing jet-powered attritable decoy drones. These expendable systems, similar to loitering munitions but with additional functionalities like electronic attack or countermeasures, offer a cost-effective way to absorb enemy fire and protect manned aircraft.
While existing decoy drone programs are often based on target drones, Pakistan already has relevant experience with its Hadaf-series and the High-Speed Target Drone (HSTD) programs. The Hadaf High-Speed, with its longer range and higher speed, shows promise as a potential platform for developing a decoy drone, provided sufficient investment is secured.
Pakistan’s drone program is on a clear upward trajectory, not only in terms of MALE UAV development but also in exploring cutting-edge technologies like attrituble decoy drones. This progress could significantly impact the regional military landscape and potentially pave the way for further advancements in drone technology.
February 2024
Source: Quwa, Janes, Defense News