By Aishma Gul
“Pakistan, as a responsible state, is always committed to playing its role for international peace, stability, and order,” stressed Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif at the IDEAS 2024 launch. The 12th International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS), held in the Karachi Expo Centre from November 19 to 22, 2024, is a prestigious forum for showcasing Pakistan’s defense advancements, fostering global alliances, and promoting security collaboration.
History of Ideas: A Journey of Growth
IDEAS (International Defence Exhibition and Seminar) was established in 2000 and has since become one of Asia’s most prominent defense exhibitions. Originally intended to promote Pakistan’s defense capabilities, it has evolved into an important venue for global defense cooperation. Over the years, IDEAS has drawn top defense manufacturers, military officials, and specialists from all over the world, making it a vital showcase for technological advancements and strategic alliances. The exhibition has grown over time, reflecting Pakistan’s increasing defense and technological self-sufficiency, and it continues to play an important role in enhancing Pakistan’s position in the international defense community.
Participation and International Engagement
Pakistan’s rising prominence in defense technology is reflected in a large number of international participants in IDEAS 2024. The event has drawn exhibitors from 36 nations, with 557 exhibitors (333 international and 224 domestic), with 17 of them taking part for the first time. General Syed Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), visited the event to interact with foreign dignitaries and strengthen international defense cooperation. More than 300 foreign delegates from 53 countries, including senior military officials, have gathered to observe Pakistan’s innovations in defense manufacturing. He emphasized Pakistan’s dedication to developing strategic partnerships through this forum and commended the proactive participation of both the domestic and international defense industries.
New Defense Tech Unveiled
IDEAS 2024 has showcased some ground-breaking Pakistani technologies. Among the highlights is the debut of the Shahpar-III, a combat Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) manufactured locally by Global Industrial Defence Solutions (GIDS). This modern UAV has a 35,000-foot operational ceiling, can fly for more than 24 hours, and can carry a variety of ammunition such as bombs and missiles. This represents an important turning point in Pakistan’s Indigenous defense production, demonstrating the country’s ability to build advanced surveillance and combat equipment on its own.
Pakistan’s first private long-range 3D surveillance radar, created in conjunction with NRTC and Blue Surge, adds to this impressive presentation. The radar, which has a 350-kilometer range, is expected to improve Pakistan’s air defense by increasing monitoring accuracy and reaction time. According to Owais Rauf, a key organizer, this radar marks a significant advancement in the country’s defense technology and self-reliance in critical defense infrastructure.
Strengthening Defence Agreements
IDEAS 2024 has also served as a platform for important defense deals. Notably, Pakistan and China have signed major Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) on defense equipment. The agreements, signed by Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT) and China’s Norinco, build on the two countries’ long-standing defense collaboration. Another important agreement was made with Chenab Engineering Works & Foundries, highlighting the combined efforts to enhance Pakistan’s defense manufacturing sector.
IDEAS Welcomes New Countries
In comparison to previous editions, IDEAS 2024 has included new countries such as Iran, Italy, and the United Kingdom. These new entries reflect the event’s growing popularity and Pakistan’s status as a defense industry powerhouse. In partnership with NUST, PMSTAP, and the National Aerospace and Technology Park (NASTP), a dedicated startup pavilion was created to highlight Pakistan’s dedication to incorporating technology into its defense capabilities. It features innovations in cybersecurity, AI, and defense technology.
The Karachi Air Show Highlights
The Karachi Air Show, held at Sea View Beach, is a prominent highlight of IDEAS 2024, showcasing Pakistan’s tri-services precision and capabilities. The Pakistan Navy’s Sea King helicopters, the Air Force’s JF-17 Thunder and F-16 fighter jets, and a live performance by Special Services Group (SSG) commandos demonstrated Pakistan’s military professionalism and readiness. International dignitaries had the chance to observe firsthand Pakistan’s military’s operational capabilities during this performance.
IDEAS 2024 highlights Pakistan’s achievements in defense technology, devotion to international security relationships, and focus on self-reliance. As global security issues evolve, events like IDEAS provide an important venue for collaboration, innovation, and strategic growth in the defense industry. Moving forward, continuing investments in Indigenous technology, together with active involvement in global defense forums, can help to strengthen Pakistan’s position as a significant participant in international defense and security.