The reported acquisitions come amid efforts by Pakistan to address gaps in its air defence network exposed during the May 2025 conflict. India’s use of BrahMos, Akash, and other stand-off weapons during Operation Sindoor highlighted the need for layered air defence and counter-drone capabilities.
Pakistan is moving to bolster its air defence capabilities with fresh procurement of medium-and long-range missiles from China and unmanned aerial systems from Turkey, following the use of advanced missiles during Operation Sindoor.
Top intelligence sources told India Today that Pakistan Air Force is acquiring China’s HQ-9 long-range surface-to-air missile system along with the HQ-16, HQ-17, and L-17 medium-range air defence missiles. The HQ-9, Beijing’s counterpart to the Russian S-400, has an engagement range of up to 250 km and is designed to counter aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles.
On the unmanned front, Pakistan is reportedly purchasing Karayel UAVs and loitering munitions from Turkey.
The Karayel, a medium-altitude long-endurance drone developed by Turkish firm Vestel, is capable of reconnaissance and precision strikes, while Turkish loitering munitions have seen extensive use in recent conflicts for targeting radar sites and air defence systems.
The reported acquisitions come amid efforts by Pakistan to address gaps in its air defence network exposed during the May 2025 conflict. India’s use of BrahMos, Akash, and other stand-off weapons during Operation Sindoor highlighted the need for layered air defence and counter-drone capabilities.
Chinese systems are likely to be deployed along Pakistan’s eastern border to counter Indian air operations, while the Turkish drones and loitering munitions could be used for both surveillance and offensive roles along the Line of Control.
Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/pakistan-eyes-chinese-missiles-turkish-drones-to-strengthen-air-defences-after-operation-sindoor-2922155-2026-06-05
