Pakistan is acquiring 80 KARGI drones from Turkey, raising security concerns for India. Turkey, Pakistan’s second-largest arms supplier, supports its military.
After suffering a huge blow from the Indian side during Operation Sindoor, Pakistan has been ramping up its drone arsenal and solidifying its defence ties with Turkey in what Indian officials describe as a “dangerous and provocative military axis.”
According to intelligence sources, Pakistan is in advanced talks with Turkey to acquire 80 KARGI loitering munitions—autonomous drones capable of striking targets over a 500-nautical-mile radius, reaching altitudes of 15,000 feet, and delivering 18 kg warheads. The deal, estimated at $20 million, comes as part of a broader pattern of post-war replenishment, with Pakistan already receiving 50 YIHA UAVs without a formal contract and preparing to induct up to 550 more, supported by anti-jamming systems and ground control stations.
Turkey-Pak: A Strategic and Ideological Convergence
The Turkey-Pakistan relationship has deepened dramatically in recent years. Based on shared geopolitical objectives and ideological leanings—particularly around Kashmir and pan-Islamic solidarity—the alliance has evolved into a full-spectrum strategic partnership.
Turkey has become Pakistan’s second-largest arms supplier after China, with Turkish arms exports to Pakistan rising 103% between 2015–2019 and 2020–2024. The key deals include: acquisition of Bayraktar TB2 drones and Kemankes cruise missiles, procurement of Asisguard Songar armed UAVs for tactical strikes, a $1.5 billion deal for four MILGEM-class corvettes to modernise Pakistan’s navy and upgrades to Pakistan’s Agosta 90B submarines.
Turkey’s Support For Pakistan During Op Sindoor
In a striking escalation during Operation Sindoor, Turkey was not just a supplier but an active combat partner. Over 350 drones were supplied to Pakistan during the conflict—including Bayraktar TB2s, YIHAs, and Songars—with Turkish military operatives embedded in real-time strike operations against Indian forces. At least two Turkish advisors were confirmed killed in Indian countermeasures, exposing Ankara’s direct involvement, sources said.
India On Guard, Countering The Axis
Experts opine that the Pakistan-Turkey partnership continues to extend to joint ventures in satellite technology, cyber warfare, and space exploration, further complementing Pakistan’s military capabilities. They view this axis as a multi-dimensional threat to India.
