THE JF-17 II: INTRODUCING BVR & PRECISION STRIKE (UPDATED)
http://quwa.org/2016/07/11/jf-17-ii-introducing-bvr-precision-strik...

It is a modern platform with the room to carry current as well as future subsystems. Yes, it is not a high-performance platform like the Dassault Rafale, but it is a platform capable of using most (if not potentially all) of the very same munitions and subsystems found on pricier alternatives. The only real bottleneck would be Pakistan’s financial capacities.

The JF-17 is equipped with the KLJ-7 mechanically-steered pulse-Doppler radar (developed by the Nanjing Research Institute of Electronic Technology or NRIET). The KLJ-7 can track targets from 75km (at 3m2 RCS – i.e. radar cross-section, an object’s detectability on radar) to 85km (at 5m2 RCS). The KLJ-7 can track up to 10 targets at beyond visual range, and simultaneously engage two with active-radar air-to-air missiles, such as the SD-10.

The SD-10 is an active radar-guided BVRAAM with an approximate range of at least 70km. It functions in a similar manner to the AIM-120C5 (in use with the PAF’s F-16 Block-52+ and MLUs). The SD-10 is equipped with an active radar-guidance seeker as well as data-link supported inertial guidance system. The latter enables the SD-10 to be deployed mid-way to its prospective target, and in a later stage (i.e. the terminal or final stage) the active radar-guidance seeker can kick in to engage the target. Specific performance parameters are difficult to come by, but some have been willing to compare it to the AIM-120, such as Australian defence analyst Dr. Carlo Kopp.

The PL-5EII is the JF-17’s core within visual range air-to-air missile. Although derived from an older platform, the PL-5EII is rated by its chief vendor the China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation (CATIC) as “an improved 3rd generation short-range IR air-to-air missile, which features good anti-jamming capability and all-aspect attack capability.” Dr. Carlo Kopp put the PL-5EII in the same general category as the AIM-9M (which is also used by the PAF’s Block-52+ and MLU F-16s).

In looking at the JF-17’s air-to-surface munitions suite, one must recognize that the PAF has yet to disclose exactly how it intends to arm the platform. However, CATIC is marketing the JF-17 with a whole host of precision-strike weapons in the form of the LT-2, LS-3, LS-6, C-802A and CM-400AKG.

The LT-2 is a laser-guided bomb kit designed for standard general purpose bombs (GPB). It is basically used to equip a GPB (such as potentially the Mk.82) with a laser-based guidance kit. Unlike satellite-aided PGBs, laser guided bombs (LGBs) can be used on a standalone basis, i.e. without the support of a satellite-network. The effectiveness of LGBs can suffer however from poor weather conditions, though the WMD-7 targeting pod could compensate for this to an extent.

The LS-3 and LS-6 are satellite-based PGB kits for 250kg and 500kg GPBs, respectively, and are similar to the Boeing Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) kit for Mk-82 and Mk-83 GPBs. Like the JDAM, the LS-3/6 is meant to augment an existing GPB with a guidance-system and glide-system, enabling the bomb to not only be more precise, but exhibit more range. In fact, the more apt comparison for the LS-3/6 would be the JDAM-ER (short for ‘Extended Range’), a stand-off munition.

The C-802A and CM-400AKG are anti-ship missiles (AShM). The C-802A is in line with emulating the Harpoon and Exocet-series of AShM, but the CM-400AKG is marketed as a high-speed missile designed to engage large ships such as aircraft carriers.

JF-17 BLOCK-2 AND BLOCK-3 DETAILS CONFIRMED
http://quwa.org/2015/10/17/jf-17-block-2-and-block-3-details-confir...

JF-17s have been used in combat

AC Mahmood confirmed to DIB that the JF-17 had seen use in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), where “it has employed both guided and unguided munitions.” In other words, the JF-17’s precision-strike capabilities have been tested and put to use. I imagine the JF-17s were primarily using laser-guided bombs, likely LT-2, but I would not discount satellite-aided LS-3 and LS-6 munitions either (see this piece for an overview of the JF-17’s munitions inventory). It is likely that the JF-17’s LGBs have been paired with the Chinese WMD-7 targeting pod (Defense News).

Indigenous data-link network in use?

Although an ancillary comment, AC Mahmood stated that “a national solution” was being used to connect the JF-17 to “on and off-board sensors.”

If you are not familiar with the concept, a data-link network basically enables various assets to communicate and exchange information from their sensors in near real-time. For example, an Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft could pick up incoming enemy aircraft and, nearly instantly, pass that exact information (with continuous updates) to friendly fighters. The network environment gives your side a live “picture” of the battlefield situation, enabling every friendly actor on the field to have an accurate and constantly up-to-date understanding of the situation.

The PAF uses the American Link-16 system with its F-16s, though it is not entirely clear if the Erieye AEW&C is equipped with Link-16. That said, it should be noted that Saab listed Link-16 (along with Link-11 and an “in-house data link”) as an option.

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Although the JF-17 Block-3 has been discussed in detail, including on this very website, it helps to know exactly what has been confirmed and what has not.

AC Mahmood has confirmed that an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar is being pursued, with the Chinese vendor Nanjing Research of Electronic Technology (NRIET) among the options being studied. The inclusion of an AESA radar would be a significant jump for the JF-17 (see here as to how and why), but a few important assumptions need to be made about the JF-17 Block-3, especially if the PAF intends to make it a substantive improvement over Block-2.

One of the general challenges with AESA radars is the impact these radars can have on weight and power consumption in the fighter. If the PAF intends to include AESA radars with the intention of maintaining or even improving the radar detection and engagement range of the Block-2, it will need a lighter airframe and more powerful engine.

While AC Mahmood did not confirm that a new engine will be used on JF-17, he did confirm that the PAF was studying its options, and that “the best equipment will find its way into the aircraft.” I think in the end the PAF would choose either the Russian RD-93MA or Chinese WS-13.

In any case, I firmly hope the Block-3 makes much greater use of composite materials and a new engine, these essentials would set up the Thunder to be up to task for most of the aerial threats facing the PAF. A larger and more powerful aircraft might also open up the doors to special warfare variants, such as strike and electronic warfare.

The PAF is also looking at its Helmet Mounted Display/Sight (HMD/S) and Infrared Search and Track (IRST) options. Again, specific details are non-existent, but I did discuss what might be the case in regards to the HMD/S. As for the IRST, this would be an interesting route for the PAF, I will direct you to Tyler Rogoway of Foxtrot Alpha for a clear and succinct explanation of IRST systems (note I have gone on a pretty big tangent here, if you are just interested in knowing what Air Commodore Khalid Mahmood said, then you can skip this section):

PAKISTAN AND ITALY AGREE TO STRENGTHEN DEFENCE TIES

http://quwa.org/2016/05/09/pakistan-italy-agree-strengthen-defence-...


Italy is among Pakistan’s leading Western suppliers. In the 1990s Finmeccanica (now known as Leonardo) provided radars for the Pakistan Air Force (PAF)’s F-7s and Mirages, most notably the Grifo-7 and Grifo-M, the latter being particularly interested in that it imbued the Mirage ROSE I (Retrofit of Strike Element) with the capacity to utilize a beyond visual range (BVR) air-to-air missile (AAM).

In more recent years, the PAF ordered 10 batteries of MBDA Spada 2000 Plus medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems for approximately $475 million U.S. The purchase was concluded in 2007 and the Spada 2000 Plus system (an improved variant of the Spada 2000) was inducted in the PAF. Alongside RAC-3D radars and 750 Aspide 2000 missiles, the package also included maintenance and testing facilities.

Around this time the PAF also ordered a number of Falco unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), which were co-produced under license at Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC).

At present, Italian firearms maker Beretta is among the handful of competitors seeking a new standard-issue rifle deal with the Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF) and the Pakistan Army. The ARX-200 – battle rifle chambered for 7.62x51mm – is (or at least was) being evaluated.

Beyond that, there other possible routes for cooperation, but they are merely possibilities. For example, the Pakistan Navy (PN) could consider Alenia Aermacchi – among other competitors – to configure its ATR-72 turboprops for maritime surveillance. The Chief Project Director of the JF-17 Thunder also listed the Leonardo Vixen active electronically-scanned array (AESA) radar as a possible option for use on the JF-17 Block-III, which is currently under development. In October 2015, Finmeccanica’s Selex ES branch said it would also try to compete to source the cockpit for the JF-17 Block-III.

We at Quwa also suggested that the PAF consider working with Leonardo to source a complete radar and avionics suite for the JF-17 Block-III. The Raven ES AESA radar, Skyward infrared search and track (IRST), and BriteCloud self-protection decoy (equipped with a radar jammer) were developed for the Saab JAS-39E/F Gripen NG platform, but are available for use for other platforms (though this is unclear in regards to the Raven ES). The PAF does not even need to embrace every sub-system, it could simply acquire the IRST (which could be integrated or optionally podded) or BriteCloud (which just needs to be placed in the chaff and flare dispenser of the fighter).

Besides the JF-17, Pakistan could also try engaging with the Italians in order to access certain munitions from MBDA, such as the Common Anti-Air Modular Missile (CAMM) or Aster platforms, these may be of interest to the Navy should it ever manage to push new multi-mission frigates into the pipeline.

Once again, it is important to reiterate that this is merely speculation and thinking on our end. The extent to which Pakistan could ever engage with Italy (or another Western firm) will be limited by its capacity to finance pricy acquisitions, and to build foreign relations muscle as a means to thwart others who may seek to undermine its purchases. For the time being, it would be worth keeping an eye on Beretta and perhaps even Leonardo, albeit to a relatively limited extent.

#Nuclear-armed #Pakistan looks ramp up #defense exports in #aviation. #JF17 #SuperMushshak https://www.bloomberg.com/politics/articles/2017-03-02/pakistan-loo... … via @bpolitics

Nuclear-armed Pakistan is seeking to ramp up defense exports amid simmering regional tensions and a surge in the global arms trade.

Pakistan expects to increase defense exports more than 10-fold to $1 billion within the next two years, targeting sales to countries such as Egypt, Turkey and Nigeria. Azerbaijan on Wednesday agreed to buy arms from Pakistan.

The target is “very ambitious” and focused on selling aircraft, Defence Production Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain said in an interview in Karachi. Pakistan’s sales drive comes amid a rising trade deficit and heightened tensions with India, its larger neighbor. Pakistan exported about $63 million of arms between 2014 and 2016, Muhammad Zakir Jafri, the joint secretary at the Ministry of Defence Production, said in a separate phone interview. 

A late entry in a market dominated by the U.S., Russia and China, Pakistan’s aspirations are reliant on private sector buy in to an industry that has, so far, been tightly held by military-run factories. It already manufactures the Super Mushshak training aircraft as well as the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet, but will need to deepen ties with countries such as Turkey and Saudi Arabia to significantly expand its reach.

Closely-Guarded Secret

Details on defense exports are closely guarded and Pakistan’s statistics bureau doesn’t include the data when measuring the nation’s trade, which showed a deficit of $2.96 billion in January, widening 75 percent from a year earlier.

More than 20 major public and over 100 private sector firms are engaged in manufacturing defense-related products in Pakistan, according to the website of Defence Export Promotion Organisation.

While major defense products are manufactured by the armed forces-run Pakistan Ordinance Factories, Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, Heavy Industries Taxila, National Radio Telecommunication Corporation and Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works, the private sector firms produce small supportive equipment only. None of them, according to DEPO website, are manufacturing large items like aircraft.

The introduction of regulatory and taxation incentives would lift the economy by encouraging the private sector to invest in defense manufacturing, said Khurram Schehzad, chief commercial officer at JS Global Capital Ltd.

“Public Private Partnership can be a workable option in increasing the private sector’s capacity to support the government’s export targets,” Schehzad said. “All this requires is a much stronger economic muscle, that is, continuously improving fiscals driven by higher direct income taxes and a deep cut on non-productive spending.”

In the past, Pakistan had focused on exporting small low-value items, but it had upgraded its defense manufacturing to high-value products like such as Al-Khalid tanks and fighter jets, said Muzzammil Aslam, chief executive officer of Invest & Finance Securities Ltd. in Karachi.

“This fetches you a lot of money and really brightens Pakistan’s prospects as a defense exporter.” Even so, analysts like Aslam are doubtful the country can achieve the government’s export target in two years. “I don’t think $1 billion is feasible.”

#Turkey, #Pakistan sign Turkish warship, Pakistani training plane deals. http://reut.rs/2qSPaBm via @Reuters

Turkey and Pakistan have signed a memorandum of understanding for the sale of four Turkish made corvette warships and 52 Pakistan-made training planes for Ankara's armed forces, Turkey's defense industry undersecretariat said on Wednesday.

Karachi Shipyard (KS&EW) will buy four corvettes made under Turkey's MILGEM warship program, aimed at designing and building locally a fleet of multipurpose corvettes and frigates that will replace older ships.

The Turkish defense undersecretariat said the final deal was expected to be signed on June 30. The statement did not provide any financial details.

Turkey will buy 52 Super Mushshak training planes from Pakistan Aeronautical Complex - Kamra, to replace the T-41 and SF-260 planes currently in use, a statement by Ankara's defense undersecretariat said.

This would be the first time a NATO country has used Super Mushshak planes, the statement added.

Two warships built under the MILGEM project so far, named TCG Heybeliada and TCG Buyukada, were delivered to the Turkish navy in 2011 and 2013. Construction is ongoing for TCG Burgazada and TCG Kinaliada, which are expected to start active duty in 2018 and 2020, respectively.

#Turkey buys 52 Super Mushshak training #aircraft from #Pakistan | Jane's 360 http://www.janes.com/article/70276/turkey-buys-52-super-mushshak-tr... …

Turkey has signed a contract with the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) Kamra for the procurement of 52 MFI-17 Super Mushshak primary trainers, according to a statement issued by the Turkish Defence Industries Undersecretariat (SSM).

The contract was signed on 10 May on the sidelines of the 2017 IDEF defence exhibition in Istanbul in a ceremony presided over by Turkish defence minister Fikri Isik and Pakistan's minister for defence production, Tanvir Hussain.

The value of the contract was not disclosed.

The aircraft are set to replace the Turkish Air Force's ageing T-41D Mescalero and SF-260D trainers.

The Super Mushshak is a PAC licence-built version of the Saab MFI-17 Supporter aircraft. Around 46 of these trainers are currently in service with the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), with the first ones being commissioned in the year 2000, according to Jane's World Air Forces.

In addition to the PAF, the aircraft has been acquired by the air forces of Iran, Iraq, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Nigeria.

In 2015 officials of Pakistan's Ministry of Defence announced that Turkey had donated 34 of its Cessna T-37 trainers to the PAF in a move that strengthened defence relations between the two countries.

Electric fan exports surged 22.40 per cent during the first 11 months of 2016-17 over the same period last year.

As many as 1.129m electric fans ($27.712m) were exported during the July-May period as compared to 1.195m fans ($22.640m) in the corresponding period of 2015-16.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1343206/electric-fan-exports-up

Sazgar Engineering is the local Pakistani company that is exporting its famous 4-Stroke CNG auto rickshaws to Japan.

Japan is a country that itself has a strong automobile industry. Japan has such an established market that exporting rickshaws from Pakistan is quite astonishing.

The citizens of Japan use these rickshaws for entertainment and leisure purposes.

Vehicles are made all around the world, but the special kind of colorful trucks and traditional rickshaws are uniqueness of Pakistan as per the Sazgar Engineering sales head Ismail. So these rickshaws are gaining popularity in Japan due to their unique attraction.

Road safety is extremely important in Japan. These rickshaws do adhere to the standards of road safety in Japan. So the rickshaws are road legal and they can be used on highways, Ismail further added.

https://www.researchsnipers.com/export-pakistani-rickshaws-japan/

PAKISTAN SEES DEFENCE EXPORT GROWTH IN 2016-2017

http://quwa.org/2017/06/22/pakistan-sees-defence-export-growth-2016...

The Chairman of the Pakistani Senate’s Standing Committee on Defence Production, Khawaja Sohail Mansoor, reported that defence exports from Pakistan have grown to more than $98 million U.S. in fiscal year (FY) 2016-2017, a 55% increase from exports a decade ago in FY 2006-2007.

Notes & Comments:

Specific inputs driving Pakistan’s defence exports for 2016-2017 were not disclosed. However, in the past two fiscal years, Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF) and Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) had booked export orders in Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

POF, which is Pakistan’s principal small arms and ammunitions vendor, announced that it had secured sales worth $93.7 million in FY 2015-2016. Saudi Arabia was POF’s largest buyer. Besides the possibility of work for the Saudi contract continuing into FY 2016-2017, POF also signed a letter-of-understanding (LoU) with Italian ammunition maker Fiocchi to pursue the supply of POF brass to Fiocchi. Similar supply LoUs were signed with the Czechoslovak Group (CSG).

In partnership with the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), POF inked a sale of 16 JF-17/FC-1 multi-role fighters to Myanmar in 2015. The first of these aircraft was seen flying in China earlier in June, indicating that PAC’s had undertaken its share of the manufacturing work for those aircraft – and exported those parts – in FY 2016-2017. Three JF-17s were also ordered by Nigeria in 2016.

PAC inked orders for its Super Mushshak trainer from Nigeria, Qatar and Turkey in 2016 (for 8, 10 and 52 aircraft, respectively), but it does not appear that deliveries were made for new-built aircraft in 2016-2017. However, PAC did deliver on-hand Super Mushshak trainers to Nigeria in December (these will be replaced by new-built units when complete).

Fruition in ongoing Super Mushshak, JF-17 and POF supply contracts should markedly increase Pakistan’s annual defence export figures. In March, Pakistan’s Minister of Defence Production (MoDP) Rana Tanveer Hussain told Bloomberg that Islamabad is aiming to propel defence exports to $1 billion over the next two years. Pakistan is viewing Turkey, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Egypt, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Sri Lanka as prospective markets to drive this growth.

Critical to this objective would be major increases in the sale of big-ticket equipment, most notably the JF-17 Thunder as well as complete systems manufactured by Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT) and Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works (KSEW). Pakistan has struggled exporting the HIT al Khalid main battle tank (MBT) and maintaining sales momentum for HIT’s series of armoured personnel carriers (APC). However, the forthcoming al Khalid 2 MBT, which is envisaged to use a 1,500-hp diesel engine and exhibit noticeable improvements to its armour and electronics, could draw foreign interest.

#Azerbaijan to buy 10 #Pakistan-made Super Mushshak trainer #aircraft | SAMAA TV

https://www.samaa.tv/pakistan/2017/07/pakistan-signs-agreement-with...

Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, Kamra brought another feather in its cap, when it signed an agreement with Azerbaijan for sale of ten Super Mushshak aircraft to Azerbaijan Air Force.

The contract was signed at Azerbaijan, where Air Marshal Arshad Malik, Chairman PAC Kamra represented Pakistan; whereas, Azerbaijan was represented by Lieutenant General Ramiz Tahirov, Air Force Commander Azerbaijan, a press release Thursday said.

This contract would also include operational training and technical support and assistance to Azerbaijan Air Force. The landmark agreement will further strengthen the bilateral ties between the two brotherly countries.

Indigenously produced Super Mushshak aircraft is equipped with most modern equipment and capabilities which makes it one of the best military trainer aircraft.

Approximately 300 Super Mushshak aircraft are being used by PAF and Pak Army for military training of pilots and other defence related activities.

Pakistan has recently signed agreements to export Super Mushshak aircraft to Turkey, Nigeria and Qatar. This contract would not only open new avenues for export of aviation equipment to foreign countries but also help in generating revenue for the country. The aircraft is already in service with Saudi Arabia, Oman, Iran and South Africa. – APP

#Pakistan Announces “Project Azm”: 5th-generation fighter, medium altitude long-endurance (MALE) UAV and munitions

http://i-hls.com/archives/77506

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has formally announced it will commence development of a 5th-generation fighter, medium altitude long-endurance (MALE) UAV and munitions under the banner of “Project Azm” (i.e. resolve or determination). In his speech for inaugurating the Kamra Aviation City initiative, the PAF Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman outlined the program objectives of the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC), the newly established Aviation Design Institute (AvDI) and Air University’s Aerospace and Aviation Campus.

“Our engineering and operational staff have indigenized few core capabilities which are truly high-tech. The 5th-generation fighter aircraft, MALE UAVs, are in the final stages of design, development of advanced weapons and other key projects”.

Air University Aerospace and Aviation Campus Kamra is an expansion campus of Air University Islamabad, which was founded in 2002. Aman stated that the campus will “provide the desired impetus for cutting-edge indigenization programs, strengthen the local industry and harness the demands of foreign aviation industry by reducing … imports and promoting joint research and production ventures.”

In its 2015-2016 yearbook, Pakistan’s Ministry of Defence Production (MoDP) states that AvDI was formed “to lead design and development activity …with its working model emphasizing leveraging existing National Human Resource and facilities”. The MoDP adds that AvDI will manage the design of “state of the art next generation aerospace vehicles.”

Aman added that the Aviation City initiative will provide valuable economic opportunities for local industry entities, and in turn, support the growth and value of Pakistan’s aviation industry. Aman’s recent statements follow his earlier commitments to localizing the PAF’s supply channel, at least in terms of its 5th-generation fighter, by assigning a significant amount of the design, development and production work of the 5th-generation domestic.

According to quwa.org, PAC’s AvDI has been responsible for three marquee aviation programs under Project Azm: the 5th-generation fighter, a MALE UAV and munitions development. Aman stated that the design work of the MALE UAV is in its “final stages”, suggesting that the UAV is a relatively near-term factor. Pakistan did not act upon the availability of MALE UAVs in China and Turkey, such as the Wing Loong-series and Anka, respectively. This is despite the prior industry ties formed with the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) and Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI).

However, Pakistan is opting for an original design instead of an off-the-shelf acquisition. Pakistan’s suppliers have supply opportunities at several key stages, the airframe, propulsion, electronic subsystems and potentially – weapons. But the PAF’s emphasis on localization implies that many of these systems will eventually be sourced domestically, though that could leave the room for co-production partnerships (which appears to interest Pakistan). 

#Pakistan announces development of 5th-gen fighter plane and medium-altitude long-endurance #UAV programs

http://quwa.org/2017/07/06/pakistan-announces-5th-gen-fighter-male-...

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has formally announced it will commence development of a 5th-generation fighter, medium altitude long-endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and munitions under the banner of “Project Azm” (i.e. resolve or determination).

In his speech for inaugurating the Kamra Aviation City initiative, the PAF Chief of Air Staff (CAS) Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Sohail Aman outlined the program objectives of Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC), the newly established Aviation Design Institute (AvDI) and Air University’s Aerospace and Aviation Campus.

“Our engineering and operational staff have indigenized few core capabilities which are truly high-tech … [the] initiative of Project Azam was thus encouraged, which is the designing of the 5th-generation fighter aircraft, [MALE] UAVs – which are [in the] final stages of design, development of advanced weapons – few of them already produced – and other key projects…”

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From the onset, PAC’s AvDI has been responsible for three marquee aviation programs under Project Azm: the 5th-generation fighter, a MALE UAV and munitions development. ACM Aman stated that the design work of the MALE UAV is in its “final stages”, suggesting that the UAV is a relatively near-term factor.

In February 2017, Global Industrial & Defence Solutions (GIDS) said that it was considering developing a MALE UAV, but AvDI had been tasked to undertake the program. Moreover, Pakistan did not act upon the availability of MALE UAVs in China and Turkey, such as the Wing Loong-series and Anka, respectively. This is despite the prior industry ties formed with the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) and Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) over the CH-3-based Burraq and Anka, respectively (in 2013 TAI contracted PAC to produce parts for the Anka).

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The other near-term – or rather, already active – program is advanced munitions development. The complete systems the PAF ACM mentioned likely refer to the Range Extension Kit (REK) glide-bomb, which was cleared for use from the JF-17 in March and the Ra’ad II air-launched cruise missile (ALCM).

The PAF requires munitions for current and future platforms, which provides ample opportunity for the industry, especially in the realm of air-to-air missiles (AAM) and guided air-to-ground munitions (AGM). Potential off-the-shelf purchases, such as the Denel Dynamics A-Darter AAM, could be sought from South Africa under transfer-of-technology and co-production terms. However, new munitions are also being developed domestically. In its 2015-2016 yearbook, the Pakistani MoDP listed the development of several new munitions, such as “multi warhead bombs” and “anti soft-avionics bomb.”

AvDI’s long-term endeavour is clearly the 5th-generation fighter program (FGF). In the past several years, several factors emerged which analysts thought would shape the PAF’s next-generation fighter pursuits, most notably the rise of the AVIC FC-31 Gyrfalcon. While the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC) is clearly progressing in developing the fighter, it is unclear if the PAF will pursue it. If not the FC-31, then realistically only two other alternate courses remain: the TAI TFX and an original design.

Pakistan has been billed as a prospective partner in the TFX, Turkey’s next-generation fighter effort. On repeated occasions since 2016, Turkish government and industry and Pakistan MoDP officials confirmed the link. However, the Pakistan MoDP’s statements regarding the matter had only verified Ankara’s invitation, but it was unclear if the approach was commercially oriented (akin to PAC’s work in supplying Anka parts) or in relation to possible PAF procurement. 

#Pakistan's #IT industry exports jump 19% last year hit all-time high near $1 Billion. #technology http://bit.ly/2w82sgr via @techjuicepk

Pakistan’s IT exports have hit an all-time high in the outgoing financial year of 2016-2017.

The country is witnessing a growth boom in the IT industry like never before and the government is also taking steps to support the IT infrastructure. And the numbers prove that the positive activity in the IT industry is delivering good results. According to ProPakistani, figures provided by the State Bank of Pakistan(SBP) indicate that the IT industry’s exports – which includes telecom, and computer and information services – in the outgoing financial year were of $938.640 million. The exports made in the previous financial year of 2015-2016 were worth $788.640 million. This indicates a year-on-year growth of 19%.

The Pakistan Software Exchange Board(PSEB), on the other hand, has reported figures that are three times greater than those reported by the SBP. According to the PSEB, the IT exports stand at a whopping $2.8 billion. There is a huge disparity in the numbers that have been reported by the SBP and the PSEB. However, it should be noted here that the SBP and the PSEB calculate the final figure of IT exports in a different manner. The PSEB reports in different sectors such as financial services, healthcare sector, e-commerce, e-health, but to estimate the final figure of total exports it takes into consideration all the exports done by local software houses to international clients.

If Pakistan’s IT industry keeps thriving at this rate, it certainly rings good news for the country’s economy. Could Pakistan hit the target of $6 billion software exports by 2020 or the target of $10 billion IT exports by 2025? We’ll have to wait and see. But the present certainly does look good.

Pakistan’s IT exports reached an all-time high for the outgoing financial year of 2016-17 with receipts of nearly $1 billion received through the banking channel.

According to the statistics provided by the State Bank of Pakistan, exports of IT industry classified as telecommunication, computer and information services surged to the level of $938.640 million in the last financial year.

The exports earning of the IT industry registered a double digit growth of 19 percent or $ 150 million from the financial year 2015-16 which stood at $788.640 million.

Exports of IT or ICT services – in broad terms – are largely delivered to countries and regions such as USA, Middle East and South African countries.

PSEB Stats

Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), on the other hand, reported 3 times higher exports as compared to SBP’s numbers ($2.81 billion) through the input of companies/software houses.

PSEB’s estimation is based on the services various IT companies and software houses rendered to different countries but their reporting is done in different sectors such as financial services, healthcare sector and etc, as well as e-commerce, e-health and e-education.

Besides, the reporting of the freelance work is usually reported through overseas remittances. It should be mentioned that Pakistan is considered as the fourth largest freelance market in the world. The estimation of PSEB suggested that exports of freelancer of IT sector stands at more than $200 million per year.

Hence, the foreign exchange inflows in IT sector is not reported as its original potential.

Breakup of IT industry Exports of Services and Products

Source: State Bank of Pakistan

IT and Telecommunication is counted as a single industry in Pakistan either under one ministry, or by reporting the inflows of this sector.

SBP Is Working To Streamline IT Forex Inflows

State Bank of Pakistan has taken a series of concrete steps to streamline exports income of the IT industry through the banking sector, which could reduce the under-reporting foreign exchange earning of IT and its enabled services.

The implementation of the instructions of the central banks to commercial banks and software houses will lead to identify the nearest figure of IT exports values on monthly and annually basis, which will also help all stakeholders to realize the potential and status of IT sector in the country.

6-Year Exports at a Glance

Source: State Bank of Pakistan

IT industry has the biggest potential in Pakistan with a capacity to expand itself domestically and internationally for exports of services when it comes to support of the government through policies and tax incentives.

Government’s Incentives for IT Sector

The government realizes that it has an important role in providing a conducive environment for the growth of the IT industry through infrastructure and HR development. The government has set a vision to enhance the exports of this sector to $5 billion per annum by 2020, which is not an impossible target.

The government has laid down its vision for the IT sector and proposed the following steps to aid in its growth:

• Zero income tax on IT exports till June 2019
• 100 percent equity ownership allowed to foreign investors
• 100 percent repatriation of capital and dividends allowed
• 7 year tax holiday for venture capital funds.

The measures of the central bank for streamlining forex inflows in IT sector coupled with the government policies are likely to give impetus to IT companies and software houses especially to enhance the exports of different services and products worldwide.

IT Parks and CPEC

Besides, a number of IT parks are being developed in the country along with continuous expansion of broadband services in the different cities to make the ecosystem an attractive and lucrative for IT companies, entrepreneurs and starter-ups.

Hopefully, Pakistan companies having offshore offices and those which park their revenues and investments in different countries will reap the benefits of incentives and business opportunities in Pakistan at times the foreign companies are looking for making their investments in Pakistan with the development of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

https://propakistani.pk/2017/08/15/pakistans-exports-cross-1-billio...

Anusha highlights IT sector’s performance

https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/236087-Anusha-highlights-IT-sector...

Mrs. Anusha Rehman said that the performance of Pakistan’s IT sector could be gauged from the fact that IT industry exports have registered a 98% growth over the past four years resulting in substantial contribution to Pakistan’s economy through foreign exchange earnings and job creation. She said that due recognition must be extended to our freelancers who have catapulted Pakistan on the 4th spot on the largest freelancing website in the world, Upwork and that it is the goal of the present government to achieve at least $5 billion in export earnings by 2020 and $10 billion by 2025.

#Pakistan plans to produce small commercial #airplanes for 10 to 30 passengers. #DubaiAirshow

https://www.khaleejtimes.com/business/aviation/pakistan-to-soon-sta...

Pakistan will soon start producing commercial aircraft for the domestic and international markets, said a senior official.

Air Marshal Ahmer Shahzad of Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) told Khaleej Times in an interview that they are looking at producing commercial aircraft with 10 to 30-seat capacity both for executive and non-executive passengers.

“As economic activity picks up with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, we require fast and efficient air transportation to fulfill domestic requirements. We’re also eyeing international requirements in the Middle East and Central Asia,” Shahzad said on the sidelines of the Dubai Airshow 2017.

The Pakistan Aeronautical Complex is a Pakistani aerospace, defence, aviation contractor and military corporation producing aerial systems for both military and civilian usage.

Pakistan has put up a pavilion at the Airshow, displaying its Super Mushshak and JF-17 Thunder as well as advanced avionics and electronic equipment. The Pakistan Air Force is participating with the JF-17 Thunder. One light fighter aircraft has been put on static display while another takes part in the daily airshow. In addition, Pakistan is also displaying its technological prowess in advanced avionics and electronic components and production potential at the Airshow.

Shahzad said work on the commercial plane project is expected to start soon.

Commenting on competition in the commercial aircraft segment, Shahzad said: “We’ve produced the Super Mushshak and it’s being sold successfully despite competition. If we make it [commercial aircraft] cost-effective, with sustained logistics and maintenance, it is going to be attractive to international customers.”

The aircraft will be produced at the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex’s headquarters in Kamra.

Shahzad revealed that Pakistan is going to resume production of more advanced unmanned aerial vehicles too.

Replying to a query about expectations of orders for the JF-17 Thunder and Super Mushshak, the PAC chief said they’re looking for new markets in the Middle East and Far East.

“There are a number of potential buyers for Super Mushshak — which is used for training purposes too. We are fulfilling the requirements of the Pakistan Air Force and are capable of manufacturing aircraft for exports too. Right now, our annual production for JF-17 is 20 aircraft.”

The Pakistan Aeronautical Complex has already signed deals with Turkey, Qatar, Nigeria and Azerbaijan for aircraft export orders.

#Pakistan eyes boosting medicine exports. #Pharmaceutical #exports are currently earning $230 million with potential to expand up to $2 billion. The industry is the 6th largest sector contributing to the overall exports of Pakistan. https://tribune.com.pk/story/1813190/1-pakistan-eyes-boosting-medic...

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (Drap) has assured the pharma industry that in order to further facilitate exports, the authority will establish a separate desk where all concerns of exporters regarding issuance of necessary documentation will be addressed.

Pharma exports are currently earning $230 million with potential to expand up to $2billion.
A meeting was held on Thursday under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Health Services Aamir Mehmood Kiani with pharmaceutical exporters. The purpose of this meeting was to discuss mechanisms to boost volume of pharmaceutical and alternative medicine exports.

The federal minister in response to concerns of the pharma industry, being represented by the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Association and top 20 pharma exporters of Pakistan, emphasised on the need of harmonisation and facilitation of pharma export by engaging customs and the Trade and Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) for resolution of their grievances.

He said the sector has huge potential and needs harvesting to benefit the country by earning money abroad through improved exports of pharmaceutical and alternative medicine. It was also apprised the industry could expand its volume of exports as the 6th largest sector contributing to the overall exports of Pakistan.

Kiani advised stakeholders to submit a working paper on how export volume can be improved. Following which, CEO DRAP, Dr Sheikh Akhter Hussain apprised the federal minister that DRAP has already taken initiative to facilitate local manufacturers who are exporting to other countries.

#Nigeria Army Partners With #Pakistan To Improve #Security Strategy. The partnership is to foster security advancement on #training, #intelligence, radio #communication, #logistics support, among others. #terrorism #BokoHaram http://saharareporters.com/2018/10/04/army-partners-islamic-republi...

The Nigerian Army, under the leadership of Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, has expressed its interest to partner with the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on security strategy.

This was revealed by the military on Thursday, when Major General Wagar Ahmed Kingravi (rtd), the High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Nigeria, visited Buratai at the Army Headquaters in Abuja.

The partnership is to foster security advancement on training, intelligence, radio communication, logistics support, among others.

News of the partnership was announced via a tweet on the official handle of the Nigerian Army that read: "The Nigerian Army has indicated its interest to collaborate with the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on training, intelligence, radio communication, logistics support among others.

"The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Tukur Yusufu Buratai, indicated the interest today when he received the visiting High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Nigeria, His Excellency Maj Gen (Retired) Wagar Ahmed Kingravi, at the Army Headquarters, Abuja."

#Pakistan Positioning For #Aerospace Services Growth. Pakistan is hoping to lean on skills and experience garnered from assembling jet trainers and combat #aircraft in a bid to attract international aerospace companies to invest. #defense #aviation http://aviationweek.com/defense/pakistan-positioning-aerospace-serv...

Pakistan is hoping to lean on skills and experience garnered from assembling jet trainers and combat aircraft in a bid to attract international aerospace companies to invest. Islamabad is pouring money into the creation of its first aerospace cluster, the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park (NASTP), part of its future vision to create an Aviation City around Kamra, home to the country’s aerospace efforts. The NASTP aerospace cluster will be located at Kamra, west of ...

#Pakistan agrees to sell #JF17 #aircraft to #Nigeria Air Force. #Nigerian Air Chief Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar called for closer coordination to fast-track the process for the acquisition of the JF-17 multirole fighter aircraft from Pakistan. https://www.nigerianews.net/naf-partners-with-pakistern-to-purchase...

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan has promised to strengthen its strategic partnership with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in equipment and spares acquisition to further enhance professionalism.

A statement by the NAF Spokesman, Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, said the Pakistan High Commissioner to Nigeria, retired Maj.-Gen. Waqar Kingravi, made the pledge when he visited the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar on Friday in Abuja.

NIGERIA NEWS gathered that Kingravi said Pakistan would also partner with the NAF on research and development, training and other relevant areas to further enhance professionalism.

He said he was at NAF Headquaters to assure the CAS of the commitment of the Pakistan Government to strengthening the existing cordial relationship between Nigeria and Pakistan.

The commissioner said the relations between the two counties had spanned several decades and yielded several mutually beneficial military collaborations.

Kingravi noted that having once headed the Army Aviation Corp of the Pakistan Army, he was familiar with peculiar requirements of air operations.

He added that he would pay particular attention to ensure that the ties between the air forces of the two countries were taken to even greater heights.

Kingravi also commiserated with the NAF on the tragic air mishap that occurred on Sept. 28, which led to the death of Sqn.Ldr. Bello Baba-Ari.

In a remark, Abubakar said that the relationship between the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and NAF was extremely cordial and had continued to grow over the past few years.

He noted that the story of the successes recorded in the counter insurgency operations in the North–East, could not be written without mentioning the support rendered by the Pakistan government.

Abubakar recounted several occasions when the PAF had gone beyond the usual to assist the NAF.

He assured Kingravi that the NAF would continue to provide the necessary support and cooperation to enable him succeed.

The CAS called for closer coordination in order to fast-track the process for the acquisition of the JF-17 multirole fighter aircraft from Pakistan.

He also appealed to the High Commissioner to liaise with PAF to develop a special programme for the conduct of basic fighter training for NAF pilots.

#Pakistani Home Appliance Makers Begin #Exports to #EU and #African Countries

https://propakistani.pk/2019/08/27/pakistani-home-appliance-makers-...

Pakistani electronics home appliances brand, Dawlance has become the first-ever company to begin exports of its products to European and African countries.

The company has upgraded its assembly plants with an investment of $60 million over the past three years to meet the high standards of different foreign markets.

This was stated by Dawlance Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Umar Ahsan Khan while talking to ProPakistani after the inauguration of a new assembly line at National Highway Karachi.

Umar Ashan Khan said that they have added two assembly lines of washing machines and water dispensers in its factory. The main objective is to export these appliances in different markets along with meeting the demand of the local market.

The company has obtained a special certification for manufacturing water dispensers to meet EU standards. These products are being exported to EU countries through Turkey. So far, the first consignment of 5,000 dispensers has been exported to Turkey and nearly 5,000 units will be sold in the international market by the end of this year. Whereas our other products, such as washing machines, are being exported to Africa and Middle Eastern Countries, he added.

Mr. Khan continued that Dawlance washing machines are in high demand in Africa because they are more affordable and energy-efficient.

Low Voltage Appliances To Be Introduced
In order to meet the demands of the significant population living off-grid, Dawlance is the first company to start production of low voltage appliances including washing machines, refrigerators, and air-conditioners in the coming months.

CEO Dawlance said:

Dawlance has planned to introduce DC current washing machines which will be operated on solar panels. This will make a difference in the lives of people living in the rural areas of the country. Due to current economic conditions, the sales of home appliances is declining but we are optimistic that the documented economy will bounce back with certain tax measures. With the government’s tax measures now everyone is being registered in the tax system , which will provide us a level playing field.

Dawlance was established in 1980 by Bashir Dawood. Its first refrigerator assembly plant was established in Hyderabad Sindh. The brand captured a significant share in the local market and ultimately attracted foreign investors’ attention. In 2016, Dawood Bashir sold Dawlance to Istanbul based Arçelik.

Pakistan exporting tractors to Africa, seeking market access to other countries: Dawood

https://dunyanews.tv/en/Business/504421-Pakistan-export-tractors-Af...

Advisor to Prime Minister for Commerce, Investment, Industries and Production, and Textile, Abdul Razak Dawood said Pakistan was exporting tractors to Africa, while efforts were being made to find access to other European markets for introducing country’s products.

At least ten thousand tractors would be exported to African countries by the end of this year, he stated while talking to a private news channel programme.  

Talking to The Express Tribune, Millat Group of Companies Deputy General Manager Commercial Syed Aale Ali Zaidi revealed that his company turned to the export market four years ago in the wake of growing challenges faced by the tractor industry at home.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/1945121/2-crisis-hit-tractor-industry-...

“Besides exporting tractors to African countries, Millat Tractors is supplying tractor engines and parts to Australia, Austria, Finland, Ireland and Britain,” Zaidi said.

Last year, Millat Tractors sold around 42,000 units, of which about 5,000 were exported.

He pointed out that African nations were emerging as a big market for Pakistani tractors, particularly Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Sudan and South Africa. He was of the view that Germany’s Hannover fair and Turkey’s Automechanica were important events for deepening relations with old buyers and looking for new importers.

He called the Automechanica fair a hub for goods buyers of Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

“The response of buyers is encouraging; importers of many countries have expressed interest in buying Pakistani tractors and their engines,” he revealed.

Zaidi said Pakistan’s market had been under pressure and in December and January Millat Tractors stopped production at its plant. However, he added that Adviser to Prime Minister on Commerce Abdul Razak Dawood was taking keen interest in developing the tractor industry and increasing its exports.

He emphasised that in order to compete with other tractor exporters, Pakistan’s industry should embrace new technology and invest heavily in research and development work.

#Pakistan #Export Of #Engineering Goods Jumped 176.72% In July to $39.223 million, up from $14.174 million exports recorded during the same month of last year, according to the State Bank of Pakistan. - UrduPoint https://www.urdupoint.com/en/business/export-of-engineering-goods-i...

The export of engineering goods from the country during the first month of current financial year 2019-20 increased by 176.72 percent against the corresponding month of last year.

During the month of July, 2019, the export of engineering goods were recorded at $39.223 million as against $14.174 million exports recorded during the same month of last year, showing growth of 176.72 percent, according to the data issued by the State Bank of Pakistan.

The engineering commodities that contributed positively in external trade included electric fans, export of which grew from $2.614 million last year to $3.428 million during the period under review, showing growth of 31.14 percent, the data revealed.

The exports of transport equipment grew by 5,874 percent from $0.415 million to $24.794 million while the exports of other electrical machinery also increase by 21.37 percent from $2.115 million to $2.567 million.

Moreover, the export of auto parts also increased by 45.93 percent from $1.365 million to $1.992 million.

Meanwhile, the engineering commodities that witnessed negative growth in external trade included export of machinery specialized dipped by 20.97 percent from $2.727million during the period under review to $3.451 million same month of last year, whereas the export of other machinery also decreased by 11.84 percent from $3.715 million to $4.214 million, the data revealed.

Pakistan, known as a major importer of weapons from China and the United States, is poised to significantly expand its arms exports, with an eventual goal of selling $1 billion worth of defense equipment every year.

A senior Pakistani government official told the Nikkei Asian Review that arms exports exceeded $210 million in the fiscal year through June. The total represents a significant increase from the approximately $100 million in arms sales two years earlier.

Five years earlier, another official noted, Pakistan's defense exports came to approximately $60 million.

The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the uptrend is reflective of Pakistan's drive for greater weapons self-sufficiency. They declined to provide further details of what is driving the increase.

Pakistan officials in general do not share figures related to national defense or associated matters like types of weapons and export destinations.

China has been playing a big role in Pakistani arms production. Together, China and Pakistan have manufactured JF-17 "Thunder" fighter jets.

"The JF-17 has helped Pakistan lay the groundwork for self-sufficiency," said retired Lt. Gen. Talat Masood, a former Pakistan military commander and defense analyst. According to Masood, China has also helped Pakistan produce tanks. In addition, China has supported Pakistan's air force through the JF-17 project and its navy with assistance in building warships and submarines. "Now," Masood said, "Pakistan is seeking to tap export markets."

There is no specific arms export target for the coming years, but eventually Islamabad would like to reach that $1 billion threshold.

In 2016, Pakistan signed a deal with Myanmar for the sale of 16 JF-17 fighters. The dollar value of the contract has not been publicly revealed, but officials privately have said it was for approximately $400 million, including spare parts.

Pakistan has also sold three JF-17s to Nigeria.

There have been other defense deals: In 2017, Turkey contracted to buy 52 Super Mushshak training aircraft. A year later, Ankara agreed to buy 1,000 PK-83 general purpose bombs.

Analysts say collaboration with China has helped Pakistan improve its ability to produce advanced weapons. "Pakistan has graduated well beyond just a manufacturer of small weapons," a senior foreign ministry official said. "We are now looking at big-ticket items."

#Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) has signed an agreement with the #Aviation Industry Corporation of #China (AVIC) for the “co-production of Chinese #commercial aircraft.” AVIC’s #aircraft include Xian MA60/600/700 and/or ARJ-21. https://quwa.org/2020/01/02/pakistans-pac-and-avic-sign-agreement-t... via @QuwaGroup

On 27 December 2019, Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) announced that it signed an agreement with the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) for the “co-production of Chinese commercial aircraft.”

Neither PAC nor AVIC offered additional details.

In 2017, PAC had expressed interest in manufacturing a 10-30 passenger commercial airliner or commuter aircraft to support the growing demand for domestic air travel. It is not known if PAC is still pursuing that goal, but the recent agreement AVIC could point towards a more manageable objective.

In 2018, PAC revealed that it was working on an expanded aerospace cluster (as part of the Kamra Aviation City initiative), and that it was hoping to attract Tier 1-4 production work from Boeing, Airbus, and other aircraft manufacturers. PAC was hopeful that the initiative could result in the domestic assembly of single-aisle commuter aircraft and jet airliners (Aviation Week – subscription required).

It is possible that this recent agreement with AVIC is tied to the objective of expanding Pakistan’s share in the supply chains of various airliner/commuter aircraft manufacturers. In this case, PAC would enter the supply chain of AVIC’s aircraft, such as the Xian MA60/600/700 and/or ARJ-21.

It is worth noting that Hybrid Aviation, a privately-owned Pakistani aviation company is a launch customer of the Xian MA700 (Reuters).

Interestingly, Russia’s Industry and Trade Minister Denis Manturov reportedly announced that talks were ongoing with Islamabad for the sale of six to 16 Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SSJ-100) airliners to Pakistan’s state-owned airline, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

In other words, there could be a regional airliner requirement in place (by PIA as well as Pakistan’s private sector airlines) that could link into production work for PAC. The latter could materialize through industrial offsets, or possibly a joint-venture or partnership for an airliner-focused spinoff of PAC.

#Turkish owned Dawlance sees $400 million in appliances’ #exports from #Pakistan. It has 3 new factories for automatic washing machine & water dispensers in the country. It has begun exporting water-dispensers to #Europe & #microwave ovens to #Bangladesh https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/613473-turkish-firm-sees-400mln-po...

Pakistan could fetch $300 to 400 million from exports of home appliances if the government focuses on non-traditional export sector and diversify exportable products, an industry official said on Thursday.


Chief Executive Officer Umar Ahsan said the company is committed to transfer technology to Pakistan to increase value-added exports from the country.

“Automatic washing machines can be exported from Pakistan. There is a potential to fetch $300 to $400 million in export revenue from products manufactured in the company’s (Dawlance) supply chain,” Ahsan said, talking to media. Overall exports could increase $10 to $15 billion per annum with diversification of exports and through focusing on non-traditional items. “But, first of all this requires a level-playing field to all the new sectors of the economy,” he added.

Ahsan accompanied Can Dinçer, chief commercial officer of Acrelik, Turkish parent company of Dawlance. Dinçer said the company has invested over $300 million in Pakistan since acquisition of Dawlance in 2016.

“We have re-invested $60 million in Pakistan whatever we earned here and now (are) eyeing to increase our shares in exports,” he said. “We are asking the government to focus on diversifying exports related to engineering goods instead of relying on few products, such textile, surgical and other products.”

Dinçer said the company’s plan is to introduce competitive pricing model in all categories to better response to the needs of the changing demands while using the distribution channels effectively in 2020.

“Since 2016, we have gained a very strong foothold in one of the world’s most promising markets, Pakistan and further built on the strengths of Dawlance,” he said. “We are very proud to see that Dawlance and Arçelik grow together as part of a larger and global organisation.”

Dawlance set up new production lines to manufacture automatic washing machine and water dispensers in the country. It also began exporting water-dispensers to Europe. It has three factories and is expanding its sales and service network, which comprises of 1,800 plus dealers across Pakistan.

The company recently inaugurated an experience store in Peshawar, offering complete range of products to consumers. It plans to establish more experience stores in other cities. Ahsan said China is the company’s main competitor because of the economy of scale. Cost of production needs to be reduced to increase Pakistan’s share in world’s exports.

On taxation, he said the Federal Board of Revenue abolished 10 percent depreciation out of total investment and the company made it part of its calculations. “We took investment decision in view 10 percent depreciation allowance,” he said. “We asked the FBR to provide this facility.”

Ahsan said the company has so far upgraded skills of 300 workers to meet quality and standard requirements for the manufactured products.

#Pakistan to launch #drone policy to boost local #manufacturing industry. Pakistan introduced locally developed drones, designed and manufactured by ABM SATUMA (Private) Ltd, initially to fight #locust attack and later to enhance #agricultural productivity https://gn24.ae/afa1c338ce17000

Pakistan government has approved the country’s first drone policy in an effort to boost local drones manufacturing industry and to usher in a new era of automation.

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday gave the green light to set up a committee to formulate a legislative and regulatory body that would expand a safer and legalised use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in diverse sectors. Drone technology can greatly benefit the country’s agriculture and urban planning sectors and maintain law and order situation, Khan said after a meeting with Minister for Science and Technology Fawad Chaudhry in Islamabad.

Develop local drone manufacturing industry
The drone policy is seen as the first step towards building the drone industry in the country where the import of drones is practically banned due to security concerns. Talking to Gulf News, Minister Fawad Chaudhry explained the government has decided to lift the ban “to develop and boost the local drone manufacturing industry” in the next five years. The regulation would help Pakistan tap into the commercial drone market, which is expected to touch US$43 billion by 2025 with an annual 20 per cent growth rate, he said. “To develop its drone industry, Pakistan looks forward to joint ventures with China and Turkey,” the minister said.

Focus on agriculture and police drones
The planned legislation is designed to effectively “use drones in precision agriculture and by law enforcement for public safety.” He said that his ministry is in contact with police departments to create special drone units to help curb street crimes in cities such as Karachi. As police departments around the world are increasingly turning to drones to fight crimes, Pakistan’s police can also make full use of high-tech surveillance tools, he said.

WHICH SECTORS CAN BENEFIT THE MOST?
Recently, drone technology is increasingly being used to improve emergency services and public safety, due to its low cost, easy deployment, and ease of maintenance. Experts have suggested Pakistan government expand the use of drones in these sectors:
• Agriculture
• Health and medicine
• Rescue missions such as natural disasters and fire-fighting
• Forestry
• Construction and infrastructure inspection
• Survey and exploration
• Utilities
• Mining

This year, Islamabad Police started using drones to track suspects especially those involved in street crimes, expand the scope of police surveillance and ensure public safety. In July 2020, Pakistan introduced locally developed drones, designed and manufactured by ABM SATUMA (Private) Ltd, initially to fight the locust attack and later to enhance agricultural productivity.

Regulation and incentives to private sector urged
Local drone manufacturers suggest that besides regulating the use of drones, the federal government must encourage the private sector by offering direct support and tax incentives to develop the local industry. “Pakistan is missing out on a huge potential to develop our drone industry due to red tape and custom duties” says Imran Wazeer, the COO of ABM SATUMA, the private company that has been developing drones in Pakistan for over two decades and pushed the government for drone legislation.

#Pakistan Prime Minister #ImranKhan approves establishment of Civil #Drone Authority to regulate the use of drones and also boost local production | Pakistan – Gulf News
https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/pakistan/pakistan-prime-minister-im...


Developing a policy framework for the adoption and management of drones is essential for businesses, agriculture, research and development, and other areas, said Khan.

The new drone authority would not only fill the regulatory void but would also be instrumental in the promotion and domestic production of drones. “Efficient use of drone technology will help improve utilization of resources and service levels,” the premier said. He urged to speed up the formation of the organization after the cabinet’s approval.

Pakistan’s first drone regulatory authority will supervise and implement several regulations related to unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or drones including licensing or drone permits, import, local manufacturing of drones and develop the standards for drone production, operations, training, research and development. It would also provide guidance for operating and flying drones to ensure public safety. The authority would also be empowered to undertake enforcement actions through warnings, fines and imprisonment.

The new organization would be headed by secretary aviation division Shoukat Ali and would comprise of top officers from Pakistan Air Force (PAF), Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Ministry of Defence Production, Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Science and Technology and representatives from each federating units. Three independent experts, whose names have not been decided yet, would also be part of the organization.


The public safety and national security challenges posed by unmanned aircraft demand a strong regulatory framework. Experts have welcomed Pakistan government’s drone regulation move but some believe that the country needed a ‘drone policy not an authority.’

“There is no reason to have a separate drone authority when civil aviation authority already exists. Drones are unmanned aircraft and that comes under aviation authority” Mosharraf Zaidi, public policy professional, told Gulf News. He says that a new organization with a few high-paying jobs could add a significant burden on the national exchequer. More importantly, “the new body would make the execution of public policy and regulation less coherent and more open to misuse”, he said.

The policy is seen as the first step towards building the drone industry in a country where the import of drones is practically banned due to security concerns. Experts say the regulation would help Pakistan tap into the commercial drone market, which is expected to touch US$43 billion by 2025 with an annual 20 per cent growth rate.



Minister for Science and Technology Fawad Chaudhry described the development as a new “milestone” and said that the ministry’s current focus is agricultural and police drones. Pakistan’s police recently started using drones to ensure public safety and the country also utilized locally developed drones to fight the locust attack.

Incentives for private firms
Pakistani drone manufacturers insist the federal government must encourage the private sector by offering direct support and tax incentives to develop the local industry and attract foreign investments and joint ventures.

“Pakistan is missing out on a huge potential to build its drone industry due to excessive red tape and high custom duties” Imran Wazeer, the COO of ABM SATUMA, a private company with two decades of drone manufacturing and integrated technologies experience, told Gulf News.

The private sector has been at the forefront of developing drone technologies with the support of government all over the world, he said

#Nigeria benefits a lot from #Pakistan, says #Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari. He thanked the Pakistani government for its support to the Nigerian #military, saying Nigeria has benefited a lot from the Islamic republic. https://punchng.com/nigeria-benefits-a-lot-from-pakistan-says-buhari/

In the statement, Adesina quoted the President as saying that Pakistan has remained faithful and consistent in assisting Nigeria, particularly in the training of members of the armed forces.

“We greatly appreciate your help in terms of training members of our armed forces, officers and men. Some of my colleagues trained in your country, and you have remained consistent in assisting us. We benefit a lot from Pakistani, and we are grateful,” Buhari said.

Raza said Nigeria was its most important ally in Africa, “and we value our collaboration. We learn and benefit a lot from each other.”

#Argentina allocates 664M for JF-17 Block III purchase in FY2022. Argentine Air Force (#FAA) has chosen #Pakistan-#China made #JF17Thunder as its next #supersonic fighter, rejecting offers from #Russia, #USA and #India. #PAC #PAF https://www.aviacionline.com/2021/09/argentina-allocates-664m-for-j... via @aviacionline

Yesterday, the draft budget for fiscal year 2022 was presented to the National Congress, which includes a request of US$ 664 million for the acquisition of JF-17 Thunder Block III fighters.

Thus, it is now clear which is the choice of the Argentine Air Force (FAA) for its next supersonic fighter, discarding the offers from Russia, USA and India.

The budget requested would be enough for the purchase of 12 JF-17 Thunder in its latest and most modern standard, taking into account the rumored price of 50 million per unit (which the Government would have tried to lower). Also, within this U$S 664 million, 20 million are contemplated for the repair and modernization of the runways and infrastructure that would host the new aircrafts.

So far, this is the clearest sign in favor of the Chinese option, which evidences the Air Force’s firm intention to complete the purchase as soon as possible. However, no one can claim victory yet. Until the contract is signed and the first funds are disbursed, there may still be counter-offers from other countries.

And it should also be remembered that in 2015, during Agustín Rossi’s first term as Argentina’s Minister of Defense, a budget of U$D 360 million had been authorized for the purchase of 14 IAI Kfir, which was then frozen in view of the imminent change of government. And finally, the administration of President Mauricio Macri decided to dismiss the acquisition of the Israeli fighters.

Therefore, the presence of the Thunder in the 2022 budget should be taken only as a purchase intention (a serious and firm indication, that’s for sure), and not as a deal already closed. One cannot underestimate the current economic and political situation in the country, in which the incorporation of modern weapon systems may not be seen as a priority.

Pakistan to Arm Super Mushshak Aircraft for Counterinsurgency Operations
Pakistan Aeronautical Complex is tailoring the Super Mushshak training aircraft for counterinsurgency operations.

https://thediplomat.com/2017/05/pakistan-to-arm-super-mushshak-airc...

Pakistan is in the process of retrofitting its fleet of MFI-395 Super Mushshak military training aircraft with new intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities and light-weight laser guided munition, IHS Jane’s reports. State-owned Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) is upgrading the training aircraft for use in counterinsurgency (COIN) operations.

The MFI-395 Super Mushshak is a PAC license-built variant of the Saab MFI-17 Supporter aircraft, which Pakistan acquired from Sweden in the 1980s. As I explained elsewhere:

In comparison to its Swedish predecessor, the upgraded MFI-395 variant features a new engine and a new flight control system, among other things.

Fitted with six hardpoints under the wing pylons, the aircraft can be armed with rockets and missiles. The MFI-395 entered service in 2001. The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) is currently operating around 300 Super Mushshaks at various training facilities.

It is unclear how many of the 300 training aircraft will be reconfigured for COIN operations. According to IHS Jane’s, the aircraft could possibly be armed with the Chinese-built 25 kg FT-10 precision-guided bomb.

“Complete integration of the weapons is expected to take another three to four months, which will also cover the design and manufacture of the pylons, quality checks, flight test, and eventually a test drop,” the report notes.

PAC is also outfitting the aircraft with an L3 Wescam MX-10 electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) pod following an inquiry by international customers as to whether the aircraft could be used as an ISR platform. “We have had several customers inquiring about integrating an ISR system, so we are looking at options,” PAC chairman, Air Marshal Arshad Malik, said in an interview with IHS Jane’s.

“While sitting in the cockpit’s right seat, the turret operator would control the camera and watch the video feed on the glass screen. At the same time the imagery could be downlinked to the battle commander on the ground. It’s a very simple system,” Malik added. One training aircraft has reportedly already been equipped with a L3 Wescam MX-10.

According to Malik, “PAC is in the process of incorporating servos for the autopilot, too,” in order to ease the pilot’s workload and to help control the aircraft following.

PAC has exported the MFI-395 Super Mushshak to a number of countries including Nigeria and Qatar. Earlier this month, it scored its biggest export order so far when the Turkish Undersecretary for Defense Industries (SSM) awarded PAC a contract for the sale of 52 Super Mushshak aircraft. PAC won the competitive bidding process in July 2016.

Nigerian Air Force using Pakistan-made JF-17s and Super Mushshak aircraft for counter-insurgency ops.

https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/07/25/fg-procures-32-fig...

The (Nigerian COIN) platforms include 10 Super Mushshak aircraft, five Mi-35M helicopter gunships, two Bell 412 helicopters, four Agusta 109 Power attack helicopters, two Mi-171E helicopters, three JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft, which were delivered and inducted in May 2021.

#Pakistan unveils Shahpar II reconnaissance and armed attack #drone at #Egypt #Defense expo 2021. It has a combat range of 1,050 km and carry 2 BURQ missiles of 60Kg each. #UAV https://propakistani.pk/2021/11/30/pakistan-unveils-shahpar-ii-dron...

Key Features
According to details, the SHAHPAR-II MALE reconnaissance drone has a combat range of 1,050 km and a real-time data link range of more than 300 km along with SATCOM Beyond Line of Sight (BLoS) capabilities.

For surveillance missions, it has a service ceiling of 20,000 feet and an endurance time of 14 hours. For attack missions, it has a service ceiling of 18,000 feet and an endurance time of 7 hours.

BURQ Missile
The drone is armed with two new advanced semi-active laser-guided air-to-surface missiles named BURQ, indigenously made by the National Engineering and Scientific Commission (NESCOM). The two weapon stations of the drone can effectively install missiles up to 60 kg each.

BURQ missile has a mass of 45 kg that can effectively engage enemy personnel, light and armored vehicles, bunkers, and buildings in a radius of 8 km.

Pakistan opens defence expo IDEAS 2022 with participation from 57 countries
300 exhibitors and hundreds of foreign delegates take part in Karachi event

https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/pakistan/pakistan-opens-defence-exp...


IDEAS 2022 will feature advanced military hardware and software with a focus on technologies such as artificial intelligence. Defence manufacturers from Turkey, China, US, UK, European Union, Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa are showcasing their products at the 11th edition of the expo, said Maj. Gen. Mohammad Arif Malik, the head of the country’s Defence Export Promotion Organization (DEPO).

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Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, who inaugurated IDEAS 2022, said that “IDEAS is an iconic platform for showcasing the latest defence technologies, and is a regional gateway for international suppliers and manufacturers to explore new avenues of defence cooperation.” He noted that Pakistan’s defence industry has achieved a sufficient level of quality, reliability and competency in the international market.

“Pakistan is now exporting high-level defence products to more than 60 countries”, however, the volume of exports did not reflect the country’s actual potential due to the limited involvement of the private sector and little attention to research and development.

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Pakistan’s longtime allies China and Turkey have the largest representation at the expo. Chinese state-run defence conglomerate China North Industries Group Corporation Limited (NORINCO) displayed missiles and weapon systems including the Red Arrow 9A anti-tank guided missile.

Top Turkish defence companies, including Roketsan, state-run STM and ASFAT, showcased their products ranging from military hardware to modern drones to tactical mini-UAV systems. Turkish Aerospace exhibited the models of the T129 ATAK helicopter, Gokbey multirole helicopter, Gokturk-2 observation satellite, as well as Anka unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and Aksungur medium-altitude long-range endurance (MALE) UAV. “We aim to increase joint cooperation [with Pakistan] on high technologies that will guide the future of the aerospace industry,” said Turkish Aerospace President and CEO Prof Temel Kotil.

Some of Pakistan’s advanced military hardware exhibited at the expo included unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), air defence systems, missile systems, tanks and armoured personnel carriers (APC).

Pakistan’s Shahpar-II medium-altitude long-endurance UAV system, advanced Harbah anti-ship cruise missile by state-owned Global Industrial and Defence Solutions (GIDS) and electronic warfare system by National Radio and Telecommunication Corporation were on display. The locally developed Al-Khalid tanks and modern assault rifles manufactured by Pakistan Ordinance Factories (POF) were also exhibited. Spectators also got a close look at the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. PAF jets are expected to perform aerial manoeuvres and demonstrate the air force’s capabilities on the concluding day of the expo.

彩云香江
@louischeung_hk
JF-17 Block III Fighter
It receives a new electronic warfare system, upgraded avionics including a three-axis fly-by-wire digital flight control system, a helmet-mounted display and sight system, and Pakistan’s first Chinese-made active electronically scanned array AESA.

https://twitter.com/louischeung_hk/status/1430555877841555457?s=20

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Pakistan Inducts JF-17 Block 3 Fighter Jets Into Its ‘Black Panthers’ Squadron After Acquiring ‘Cutting-Edge’ J-10C – Reports

https://www.eurasiantimes.com/pakistan-inducts-jf-17-block-3-fighte...

a Chinese state-owned Global Times report quoted an unnamed military expert as saying, “With the PL-10, the JF-17 Block 3 will gain tremendous dogfight capability and have an edge even against its heavier opposing counterparts in homeland air defense.” If current speculations are anything to go by, the Block III variant could eventually be equipped with the most advanced PL-15 air-to-air missile.

The JF-17C boasts noticeable enhanced features like an integrated electronic warfare (EW) suite, Wide Angle Smart HUD, extra hard points on the chin, and Missile Approach Warning Systems (MAWS).

The KLJ-7A airborne active electronically scanned array (AESA) fire-control radar is reportedly installed aboard the aircraft. Previously, there had been speculations that the JF-17 may soon receive some of the electronics, avionics, and technology used in the J-20.

Reports and images surfacing on the internet have suggested that the assertions may not entirely be untrue, even though it’s unknown what extent of technology the JF-17 Block III and J-20 might share.

Global Times says the new jets boast improved “high off-boresight” capability. The “aircraft can fire from whatever position, and its missiles will adjust thrust, speed, and trajectory to hit targets.”

Further, certain reports claimed that the fighter known to possess “J-20 DNA” is one of four fourth-generation classes created using much of the technology developed for China’s J-20 fifth-generation fighter.

Furthermore, military experts in Pakistan and China have repeatedly emphasized that the upgraded variant would qualify as the world’s most powerful lightweight fighter jet.

With Pakistan’s arch-rival India focusing efforts on developing a fifth-generation fighter jet and exploring options to acquire a multi-role fighter soon, the induction of an advanced variant of the JF-17 fighter jet could prove to be a significant addition for the PAF.

Pakistan signs contract to sell JF-17 fighter jets to Azerbaijan

https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/pakistans-milita...

Pakistan's military said on Thursday that the country has signed a contract to sell JF-17 Block III fighter jets to Azerbaijan.
The aircraft is co-produced by the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and developed jointly with China, with whom Islamabad has grown increasingly close as ties with traditional military ally the United States have weakened over the last few years.
The military did not provide the cost or quantity of jets agreed to, but said in a statement that the sale was part of Islamabad's efforts to enhance defence cooperation with friendly countries and bolster the air power capabilities of Azerbaijan.

Pakistan is also a close ally of Turkey, which backed Azerbaijan in its standoff with Armenia when clashes erupted between the two South Caucasus countries last year, resuming decades-old hostilities.
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev was in Pakistan in July on a state visit where the two countries agreed to enhance cooperation in a number of areas, including defence.
Following the visit, Pakistan deployed an air force contingent at Baku to participate in the Azerbaijan defence exhibition to showcase the aircraft, Pakistan's military said.

The aircraft "is capable of undertaking a wide array of combat missions providing contemporary airpower employment options," the statement added.