Pakistan reveals suicide drone capable of targeting tanks & helicopters

KARACHI: Pakistan has introduced a state-of-the-art suicide drone that is capable of flying at an altitude of 6,000 feet and carrying out precision strikes on enemy targets including tanks, helicopters and installations using 60mm and 81mm bombs.

As per the details, the drone was showcased at the Ideas 2024 defence exhibition held at the Expo Centre in Karachi and was developed by Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF).

According to Salman Ali Khan, POF’s Manager of Weapons Design, this is Pakistan’s first venture into suicide drones, which is complemented by earlier developments in surveillance and combat drone technology. The latest design includes thermal imaging and a hybrid electric system, extending the flight time to 4-5 hours, a significant improvement over earlier models that were limited to 30-40 minutes.

The drone is equipped with night vision, which allows it to identify heat signatures from enemy personnel, vehicles or installations in complete darkness. With a range of 8 km, it can fly close to the ground, ensuring accurate targeting.

Highlighting the operational value, Khan noted that the suicide drone is a cost-effective solution, capable of neutralizing high-value assets like tanks or helicopters costing millions of dollars. The drone’s flexibility allows for aerial surveillance, precision strikes, and kamikaze missions, making it a versatile addition to Pakistan’s defense arsenal.