US intervention has halted Turkey’s sale of 30 T129 ATAK helicopters to Pakistan, which are typically used for reconnaissance and all-weather operations. As a result, Pakistan must refund the $160 million advance it paid to Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) for the helicopters, part of a larger $1.5 billion deal.
The “tropicalised” attack helicopters, capable of night operations, were priced at about $50 million each and intended to replace Pakistan’s existing Bell helicopters. However, the US Department of Defense has declined to authorize the export license for the critical LH TEC helicopter engines, citing concerns. The lack of a Turkish-produced equivalent engine has further obstructed the deal.
Turkey, a NATO member, traditionally supplies a variety of weaponry to Pakistan, including corvettes, submarines, and attack drones. Recently, there have been discussions about Pakistan potentially acquiring the TF-Kaan, an advanced Turkish stealth fighter. While China remains Pakistan’s principal arms provider, Turkey has emerged as a significant alternative.