ISLAMABAD, Oct 30: Defence exports of Pakistan have crossed the $200 million mark as the country’s robust defence manufacturing industry continues to expand. This was disclosed by Major General Syed Absar Hussain, Director General, Defence Export Promotion Organisation (DEPO),while talking to Dawn here on Monday after briefing defence attaches of different countries on the International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) 2006. The event is scheduled to be held in Karachi from November 21 to 24.
General Absar said a new Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) named ‘Saad’ will be unveiled for the first time at IDEAS 2006. Pakistan launched APC Saad equipped with Battle Field Management Systems, including computerised command, control, communication, intelligence and information systems in July 2003.
Gen Absar did not give details whether the Saad to be displayed at IDEAS 2006 was an upgraded version.
He said improved versions of the Al-Khalid battle tank and Super Mushak single piston engine aircraft will also be put on display besides various other upgrades.
The Al-Khalid tank has a night-fighting capability as well as the ability to automatically track targets. Super Mushak can be used as a trainee aircraft as well as for other aerial and defence operations.
Earlier, in his presentation, he said there will be a presentation on JF-17 Thunder aircraft jointly developed by Pakistan and China.
He said an international seminar on “expanding global security environment” will be held on Nov 20. The seminar will be presided over by either the defence minister or the foreign minister and addressed by various foreign delegates.
He said the formal inaugural ceremony of the exhibition will also take place the same evening. The exhibition will be open for the general public from November 21.
He said a Joint Forces Display in the sea at Manora island will mark the culmination of one of the world’s largest defence exhibitions. He said all the three services will demonstrate their prowess.
He said the Special Services Group (SSG) of the Pakistan Army will demonstrate a mock anti-terrorist operation.
He said the theme of the exhibition will be “Arms for Peace”, adding that the purpose was not just to sell weapons but also to show the soft image of Pakistan to the world.
He said 165 leading manufacturers from 23 countries, including 91 foreign and 74 domestic companies, had participated in IDEAS 2004.
He said this time 107 delegates from 95 countries have been invited, adding that 75 delegates from 70 countries have so far confirmed their participation.
