By Major (R) Haroon Rasheed Defense and Strategic Analyst – South Asian Military Dynamics & Technology.
A New Opportunity on the Horizon
Recent reports indicate that Turkey has offered Pakistan its upcoming AMCA-3 combat UAV, along with a rare and valuable proposal: full Transfer of Technology (ToT) and local manufacturing, provided Pakistan orders more than 100 units.
This is not a routine defense deal — it could be a turning point in how Pakistan builds and operates advanced aerial systems in the coming decade.
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Turkey’s drone program is already respected worldwide. With the AMCA-3, the two countries have the chance to enter the next phase of autonomous warfare together.
What the AMCA-3 Offers
Although Turkey has not yet publicly released all details, the AMCA-3 follows the design lineage of modern stealth UAVs like the Anka-3 and Kızılelma. From what is known, this system represents a leap towards AI-supported, stealth-capable air combat.
Stealth & Design
Flying-wing shape for reduced radar visibility
Composite materials and “low observable” finish
Internal weapon bays for cleaner stealth profile
Performance
High subsonic to near-supersonic speeds
Long-range, deep-strike potential (1,500+ km)
Strong endurance for ISR and offensive operations
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Weapons & Payload
It is expected to carry:
- Precision-guided weapons
- SOM-J mini cruise missiles
- Anti-radiation missiles for SEAD
- Electronic warfare pods
- Payload capacity is estimated around 1.2–1.5 tons, which is significant for a stealth UAV.
- Sensors & Avionics
- AESA-based radar
- Electro-optical systems
- Electronic intelligence packages
- SATCOM links for long-range control
- Networked combat capability with aircraft like JF-17
- Smart Autonomy
- AI-driven targeting
- Loyal-wingman capability
- Autonomous mission planning for strike or suppression operations
This combination makes the AMCA-3 a reliable platform for both independent and coordinated missions.
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Why This Matters for Pakistan
1. A Major Boost to Airpower Without Risking Pilots
Pakistan has strengthened its drone ecosystem with systems like Akinci and Shahpar-II, but the AMCA-3 belongs to an entirely different class.
It would allow Pakistan to:
- Enter contested airspace without risking pilots
- Conduct long-range precision strikes
- Perform electronic warfare and SEAD missions
- Support manned fighters during intense operations
In short, it allows high-end operations at a lower cost and lower risk.
2. Balancing India’s Air Modernization
India is rapidly expanding and upgrading its airpower through Rafale upgrades, AMCA program, Tejas Mk-II, and Israeli-origin drones.
The AMCA-3 gives Pakistan a strong counter in several key areas:
- Neutralizing Indian S-400 and air-defense networks
- Conducting deep-strike or high-value ISR missions
- Supporting JF-17 and future fighters in offensive roles
- Maintaining pressure on forward Indian air assets
In a future conflict, stealth UAVs like the AMCA-3 can play a decisive role, especially in the opening hours of combat where Pakistan seeks to degrade enemy air defenses and shape the battle.
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3. Industrial Growth Through ToT
Turkey’s offer includes:
- Transfer of Technology
- Local manufacturing
- Co-production
- Customization based on Pakistan’s needs
This would be a huge step for Pakistan’s defense industry.
It strengthens PAC Kamra, opens doors for joint R&D, and allows Pakistan to eventually export similar UAVs to friendly countries.
Industrial autonomy is strategically as important as operational capability.
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4. Strengthening the Pakistan–Turkey Defense Partnership
Pakistan and Turkey have always shared deep defense ties — from MİLGEM corvettes to UAV collaborations.
The AMCA-3 project can take this cooperation to an entirely new level, where both countries contribute to a shared future of advanced autonomous warfare.
This is not just a purchase — it’s a partnership for the future.
Conclusion
The potential acquisition of the AMCA-3 UAV with full technology transfer is an opportunity Pakistan cannot overlook.
It strengthens Pakistan’s military capability, helps maintain strategic balance with India, and empowers Pakistan’s own defense industry to grow into a world-class UAV manufacturer.
The AMCA-3 will not just be another platform in the Pakistan Air Force — it could become a symbol of Pakistan’s transition into high-end autonomous warfare, achieved in partnership with one of its most trusted allies, Turkey.
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Major (R) Haroon Rasheed is a Defense and Strategic Analyst specializing in South Asian military dynamics, deterrence strategies, and defense modernization. He is a member of the Research and Evaluation Cell for Advancing Basic Amenities and Development (REC ABAD).
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