(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — The Pakistani defense company, Global Industrial & Defence Solutions (GIDS), showcased the capabilities of the latest variants of its Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV), “Shahpar II,” by targeting demonstrations to high-ranking military officials from 11 friendly countries.
During the demonstration, the “Shahpar II” UCAV, classified as a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) drone, engaged targets from an altitude of 14,000 feet using its own air-to-ground guided missile, “Burq.”
This UCAV represents an upgrade from Pakistan’s previous model, the “Shahpar-I,” also produced by GIDS.
Owned by the Pakistani government, the GIDS-manufactured UCAV boasts a 20-hour flight capability for surveillance missions and 14 hours for strike operations.
Senior officials from the Pakistani defense company claim that their “Shahpar II” UCAV outperforms competitors in the market, including Turkey’s Baykar Technology-produced Bayraktar TB2 and China’s CH-4, in terms of capabilities and cost efficiency.
The UCAV is set to undergo further weapon testing in April, involving the “Burq II” air-to-ground laser-guided missile, equipped with a 20kg explosive warhead, allowing it to engage larger targets.
Additionally, the “Shahpar II” will test the launch of precision-guided munitions in April.
Among the allied nations invited to witness the UCAV’s firing demonstration were Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Kenya, Nigeria, and Kenya.
The “Shahpar II” is equipped with a SATCOM satellite communication system, enabling long-distance communication with ground control stations and the execution of maximum-range surveillance and attack missions.
It also features the Electro-Optical ZUMR-2 HD EO Sensor.
Capable of flying at altitudes ranging from 21,000 to 23,000 feet and a speed of 220 km/h, each wing of the “Shahpar-II” can carry various guided missiles and bombs weighing up to 60kg.
In addition to its own guided munitions, the “Shahpar-II” can be equipped with missiles from other manufacturers, including Turkey’s MAM-C and MAM-L. — DSA