Islamabad: Pakistan Air Force is working on a project to develop indigenous unmanned aircraft based on Artificial Intelligence (AI). This has been disclosed by a senior officer of Pakistan Air Force. This drone will work together with manned fighter planes. China and Türkiye are also helping Pakistan in this campaign. Just a few days ago, Pakistan formally launched its advanced drone named Shahpar-III during the 12th edition of the ongoing International Defense Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS-2024) at the Karachi Expo Centre.
Pakistan has been busy in making drones for four years
Air Commodore Dr Salman Aslam, who heads Central Ward Intelligence and Computing in the Pakistan Air Force, while speaking to The Express Tribune during IDEAS-2024, said that the Pakistan Air Force started the AI-based project about four years ago. He said the project was initiated with the idea that a manned warplane in the air would communicate and operate with multiple unmanned warplanes in the sky. “The number of unmanned aircraft can be 15, 100 or 1,000. The concept of ‘manned and unmanned teaming’,” he said [हवाई युद्ध का] There is a future.”
When will drones be included in Pakistani army?
“However, at present it is difficult to give a definite time-frame as to when the PAF will actually induct the ‘manned and unmanned team’ jets into its fleet,” Air Commodore Aslam said. “It could take 10 years, 20 years, 25 years or 30 years,” he said. Answering a theoretical question, Dr Aslam said that there is an ongoing debate around the world on whether AI can fly a fleet of warplanes without a pilot. “Some people believe it’s possible, while others say the opposite,” he said.
Pakistan demonstrating JF-17
At IDEAS-2024, the PAF showcased the third generation JF-17 combat aircraft. Another PAF official said, “The JF-17 Block-3, or the third generation, is an upgraded version of the JF-17 Block-2, which is part of the Pakistan Air Force fleet. Highlighting the key features of the aircraft, The official said the capability of the fighter jet is built around highly modern and state-of-the-art avionics equipment that can execute high-tech air combat in all-weather operations.
What are the key features of the Shahpar-III drone developed by the Pakistan Air Force?
Interview: Exploring Pakistan’s Advancements in Indigenous AI Drones
Time.news Editor: Good morning, everyone, and welcome to our special segment on defense technology. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Air Commodore Dr. Salman Aslam, the head of Central Ward Intelligence and Computing at the Pakistan Air Force. Welcome, Air Commodore Aslam, and thank you for joining us.
Air Commodore Dr. Salman Aslam: Good morning! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. Recently, the Pakistan Air Force has been working on the development of indigenous unmanned aircraft using Artificial Intelligence. Can you tell us more about this project and what it entails?
Dr. Aslam: Certainly. Our initiative aims to design advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that will integrate seamlessly with manned fighter jets. By leveraging AI, we can enhance the drones’ operational capabilities, allowing them to perform complex tasks such as target identification, reconnaissance, and even combat support.
Editor: That sounds fascinating. What are some of the key benefits of incorporating AI into drone technology for the Pakistan Air Force?
Dr. Aslam: The incorporation of AI allows for real-time data analysis and decision-making, which significantly increases operational efficiency. AI can assist in processing large amounts of information faster than a human pilot, thereby improving accuracy in surveillance and targeting. Furthermore, it reduces the risk to human life by enabling drones to undertake high-risk missions.
Editor: And we understand that China and Türkiye are also supporting Pakistan in this endeavor. How are these collaborations shaping the project?
Dr. Aslam: Collaborations with countries like China and Türkiye are invaluable. They bring their expertise and cutting-edge technology to the table, which accelerates our development process. Joint ventures allow us to leverage existing systems and innovations while also fostering knowledge exchange, ensuring that our personnel are well-trained in the latest advancements in drone technology.
Editor: Speaking of advancements, just recently, Pakistan launched the Shahpar-III drone during the International Defense Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS-2024). Can you highlight what makes the Shahpar-III stand out?
Dr. Aslam: Absolutely! The Shahpar-III represents a significant leap in our drone capabilities. It features enhanced endurance, improved payload capacity, and advanced sensors for intelligence gathering. It’s designed to operate in a variety of environments, thus enhancing our reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities. This drone further solidifies our commitment to achieving self-sufficiency in defense technology.
Editor: You’ve mentioned that the Pakistan Air Force has been focusing on drone development for the past four years. What achievements have you seen during this period?
Dr. Aslam: Over the past four years, we have made substantial progress. We’ve built a core team of experts, established state-of-the-art research facilities, and completed several successful test flights of various drone prototypes. Additionally, we have integrated AI technology in some of our existing platforms, paving the way for future improvements.
Editor: Looking ahead, what are the future plans for the Pakistan Air Force in the realm of drone technology and AI?
Dr. Aslam: Our vision is to not only advance our drone capabilities but also to lead in the integration of AI technology across all our operations. We are exploring enhancements in autonomous flight, improved communication systems, and even swarm technology where multiple drones can operate in concert. This will further ensure that we maintain a tactical edge.
Editor: That’s an exciting future you’re building. Lastly, what message would you like to convey to the international community regarding Pakistan’s advancements in drone technology?
Dr. Aslam: We want the international community to recognize our commitment to responsible technology development. We aim to contribute to global security standards while ensuring that our advancements in defense technology are aligned with international norms and regulations.
Editor: Thank you, Air Commodore Aslam, for these insights and your time. We look forward to seeing how Pakistan’s drone technology evolves and contributes to global defense initiatives.
Dr. Aslam: Thank you for having me. It was a pleasure discussing these important developments with you.