ISLAMABAD- Pakistan is emerging as the next potential site for Turkey’s expanding drone industry as Ankara accelerates negotiations to assemble advanced combat drones on Pakistani soil. The talks come at a time when Turkey’s defense exports continue to break records, strengthening its presence across global security markets.
Turkey is pushing to scale its unmanned aircraft programs, with officials confirming that the proposal would see stealth and long-endurance drone platforms exported from Turkey for assembly in Pakistan. The discussions have advanced steadily since October.
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Drone Assembly Plan
Turkish officials familiar with the matter say the initiative aligns with Ankara’s goal to expand its fast-growing defense industry.
The proposed facility would allow Pakistan to assemble Turkish-made combat drones locally, boosting its manufacturing capabilities while strengthening bilateral defense ties, reported Bloomberg.
The project would also support Turkey’s wider strategy of distributing production across key partner countries.
The talks remain confidential, but sources indicate that both sides consider the plan strategically valuable. If finalized, the cooperation would deepen a partnership already built on long-term military collaboration, including shipbuilding and aircraft modernization.
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Export Surge
Recent data from Turkey’s defense and aerospace sector shows exports rising 30 percent between January and November compared with the same period last year.
With one month still remaining in 2025, the industry has already surpassed previous annual records, signaling strong international demand for Turkish-made systems.
Haluk Görgün, who heads the Presidency of the Defense Industry, described the growth as a historic milestone.
The performance reflects sustained investment in drones, fighter technologies and aerospace manufacturing.
These products have become central to Turkey’s branding of national self-reliance and are frequently promoted during high-level foreign visits.
Baykar, Turkey’s leading drone manufacturer, now exports drones to roughly 35 countries. Its platforms have been deployed in conflicts in Azerbaijan, Libya and Ukraine.
The company is co-owned by Selçuk Bayraktar, who has strong political influence and is widely known for showcasing Baykar aircraft during overseas engagements.
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Expanding Defense Ties
Turkey and Pakistan already cooperate on key defense programs. Ankara is producing corvette-class warships for Pakistan’s navy, and it has modernized a large share of Pakistan’s F-16 fleet.
Turkish officials say Ankara wants Pakistan to join its KAAN fifth-generation fighter jet effort, which would further integrate the two defense industries.
The drone negotiations come at a sensitive moment for Islamabad. Pakistan recently reached a ceasefire with India after a brief four-day confrontation in May, while tensions with Afghanistan remain high amid concerns that militant groups may operate along the border.
A new drone partnership could help Pakistan enhance surveillance capabilities as it navigates regional security challenges.
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Bottom Line
Turkey’s proposal to assemble combat drones in Pakistan marks a significant step in expanding defense production partnerships.
With Turkish defense exports already up 30 percent this year, the agreement could accelerate Ankara’s global ambitions while giving Pakistan access to advanced unmanned technology at a crucial strategic moment.
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