PRIME Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s remarks at the Indus Robotics and Autonomous Systems Expo 2026 rightly highlighted the growing importance of indigenous defence capabilities in Pakistan’s national security architecture. His observations reflect a reality that Pakistan’s defence industry has evolved from relying heavily on imports to developing an increasingly sophisticated indigenous manufacturing base.
The operational use of locally developed technologies during the Pakistan-India conflict in May last year was a clear manifestation of this progress. From advanced drones to precision systems and other force-multiplying capabilities, Pakistan demonstrated that it possesses technological expertise and the operational capacity to employ indigenous systems effectively in safeguarding national security. Recent reports suggesting that several countries have expressed interest in acquiring Pakistan’s defence equipment, including fighter aircraft, are equally encouraging. Defence exports not only validate the quality and reliability of locally produced systems but also open new avenues for foreign exchange earnings and industrial growth. A vibrant defence industry can become an important contributor to the national economy while enhancing Pakistan’s standing in the international defence market. Given Pakistan’s economic realities, large-scale purchases of expensive foreign military hardware on the scale pursued by India are neither practical nor sustainable. Indigenisation, therefore, is not merely a strategic choice but an economic necessity. Continued investment in research and development, closer collaboration between the armed forces, academia and industry, sustained support for domestic manufacturers and enhanced cooperation with friendly countries in this field will further strengthen this momentum.
