On Friday, 14 March 2025, Turkish Aerospace Pakistan successfully conducted the maiden autonomous flight of its indigenously developed technology demonstrator, IQBAL. The 6-minute-long flight marks a significant milestone in the advancement of aerospace technology and reflects the strong defense partnership between Pakistan and Turkiye.
“IQBAL” is named after Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, Pakistan’s national poet, who held the Turkish nation in high esteem and admired their passion for liberty. The technology demonstrator is a 1:7 dynamically scaled version of the KAAN—the 5th generation fighter jet developed by Turkish Aerospace.
Role in Aerospace Advancement
Developed entirely by a team of highly skilled young engineers at Turkish Aerospace Pakistan, the IQBAL technology demonstrator serves as a test bed for various advanced aerospace technologies. It is expected to play a key role in the technological evolution of KAAN, enhancing next-generation fighter capabilities.
The successful maiden flight highlights the engineering expertise and innovation at Turkish Aerospace Pakistan. The insights gained from IQBAL’s development and flight performance will contribute to refining KAAN’s design and operational efficiency.
Strengthening Pakistan-Turkiye Defense Ties
This achievement symbolizes the long-standing strategic and defense cooperation between Pakistan and Turkiye. Turkish Aerospace Pakistan’s success with the IQBAL technology demonstrator underscores the strength of the bilateral relationship and the shared commitment to technological advancement.
Ongoing Defense Projects Between Pakistan and Turkiye
ome of the key ongoing defense projects between Pakistan and Turkiye include:
• MILGEM Corvette Program – Turkiye is building four MILGEM-class corvettes for the Pakistan Navy, enhancing Pakistan’s naval capabilities.
• KAAN Fighter Jet Collaboration – Pakistan and Turkiye are exploring joint development and technological exchange for the 5th generation KAAN fighter jet.
• UAVs – Turkiye has supplied Bayraktar TB2 and Bayraktar Akinci drones to Pakistan to improve its unmanned aerial capabilities.
• Submarine Modernization – Turkiye is assisting Pakistan in the modernization of its submarine fleet under a defense cooperation agreement.
