By Major (R) Haroon Rasheed, Defense and Strategic Analyst, Member REC-ABAD.
Pakistan and Turkey have steadily transformed their defense cooperation into a strategic partnership with far-reaching implications. The latest milestone in this journey is the announcement of a jointly developed Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile, projected to have a range of more than 200 kilometers.
This initiative reflects the shared determination of both nations to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and strengthen their own defense industries.
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Pakistan’s Indigenous Ambitions
For Pakistan, the drive to develop indigenous BVR capability is rooted in necessity. The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has operated Chinese PL-series missiles alongside Western-origin systems, but recurring challenges with sanctions, political restrictions, and supply bottlenecks have underlined the importance of self-reliance.
Reports of Pakistan’s FAAZ-II BVR missile program indicate a serious effort to create a homegrown long-range weapon for platforms such as the JF-17 Thunder and J-10C Building on its experience with ballistic and cruise missiles—Shaheen, Babur, and Ra’ad—the country now seeks to extend its expertise into air-to-air domains. In the age of modern aerial warfare, where long-range precision decides outcomes, this step is both logical and urgent.
Turkey’s Parallel Progress
Turkey has pursued a similar course. Under the leadership of TÜBİTAK SAGE and Roketsan, Ankara has introduced the Bozdoğan (Merlin) for within-visual-range combat and Gökdoğan (Peregrine) for medium-range BVR engagements. More significantly, its Gökhan project, featuring ramjet propulsion, aims to rival the European Meteor missile with ranges exceeding 150 kilometers.
Additionally, Turkey’s GÖDHBARA initiative reflects its determination to field long-range BVR missiles of 200 km class and beyond. These projects underline Ankara’s strategic intent to achieve independence from NATO restrictions while enhancing export potential.
Why a Joint Venture Makes Sense
The convergence of these efforts into a joint Pakistan–Turkey missile program represents a natural evolution of bilateral defense cooperation. Both nations face adversaries equipped with advanced air power, and both have experienced the vulnerabilities of relying on Western suppliers.
The benefits of collaboration are clear
Shared Expertise: Pakistan brings operational experience integrating diverse missile systems, while Turkey contributes advanced propulsion and seeker technologies.
Reduced Costs and Risks Pooling resources lowers financial burdens and minimizes exposure to sanctions.
Seamless Integration. The missile can be developed for compatibility with the JF-17, J-10C, and Turkey’s upcoming TF-X (Kaan) fighter jet.
Export Prospects: A jointly developed BVR missile could become attractive to states in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, unable to access Western systems.
Strategic Implications
The introduction of a 200+ km BVR missile has far-reaching implications. For Pakistan, it provides a credible counter to India’s Meteor-equipped Rafales, ensuring parity in long-range engagements. For Turkey, it strengthens its autonomy, adds weight to its indigenous fighter jet program, and bolsters its reputation as an emerging defense exporter.
At a broader level, this initiative signals a shift in global defense dynamics. It illustrates how South–South defense partnerships—particularly among Muslim-majority nations—can achieve high-end technological independence without reliance on traditional power blocs.
Conclusion
The Pakistan–Turkey joint BVR missile project is not just another defense collaboration—it is a strategic milestone. It reflects the foresight of two nations determined to safeguard their sovereignty and reshape the balance of power in their respective regions.
If realized successfully, the missile will not only equip Pakistan and Turkey with cutting-edge capabilities but will also stand as a symbol of what determined partners can achieve when they unite to challenge technological monopolies in modern warfare.
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Major (R) Haroon Rasheed is a defense and strategic analyst specializing in South Asian military dynamics, deterrence strategy, 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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