Colombo, March 22: Pakistan’s military capabilities are increasingly hampered by its reliance on affordable Chinese drone technology. A report from Sri Lanka’s Daily Mirror claims that Pakistan has been compelled to turn to China, not merely due to strategic partnerships, but because it has been excluded from advanced defense markets in Western countries.
According to the report, advanced drones from the U.S., such as the MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper, are technically superior. However, Washington imposes strict restrictions on their sale, particularly to countries close to China. This has forced Pakistan to depend on China due to limited options.
The report further states that China has capitalized on this situation by offering its drones, like the Wing Loong II, as cheaper alternatives. The cost of this drone is approximately $1-2 million, while the MQ-9 Reaper can reach around $30 million. However, this price difference also reflects a significant disparity in performance, which is often not highlighted in promotional materials.
It is noted that the CH-4B drone used by Pakistan may resemble the MQ-9 Reaper, but its capabilities are limited. Meanwhile, China’s advanced model, the CH-5, also falls short in engine capacity, restricting its maximum flight altitude to about 9 kilometers, compared to the Reaper’s 12-15 kilometers.
The report indicates that Pakistan’s drone program is now so deeply institutionalized that changing it will not be easy, even if future relations between China and Pakistan shift. However, the actual capabilities are not as impressive as often portrayed.
Additionally, the report highlights that the reasons behind the low prices are clear: maintenance issues and documented losses in combat expose the limitations of these drones.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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