Tech Desk 
Nov 22, 2024
The International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) 2024 started in Karachi with a striking display of modern defense technology, including Pakistan’s third-generation Haider tank.
The exhibition brought together 550 exhibitors, including 340 international defense companies, and officials from 55 countries, marking a major event in the global defense industry.
Heavy Industry Taxila displayed the Haider tank, which attained attention for its advanced features and capabilities. Heavy Industry Taxila representative Anza Aqeel briefed the tank’s auto-tracking system, remote-control weaponry, and an impressive cruising range of 470 kilometres.
Ideas 2024 Pakistan: Haider tank features
The Haider tank is featured with an autoloading system that can fire up to eight rounds per minute, allowing it to operate efficiently both during the day and at night. This technological improvement positions the Haider tank as a formidable asset to Pakistan’s defence forces.
Meanwhile, the exhibition unveiled the Shahpar-III drone, an advanced aerial surveillance system used by Pakistan’s military. The drone, along with other defence technologies, highlights Pakistan’s growing focus on modernising its defence infrastructure to keep pace with global trends.
Speaking on the occasion, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif highlighted the importance of advancing defence exports to match the country’s potential, urging greater collaboration between the public and private sectors.
He emphasised the requirement for innovative defence solutions and highlighted that Pakistan’s defence industry could benefit from sustainable growth and strategic partnerships with international defence manufacturers.
Moreover, IDEAS 2024 featured a “Startups Pavilion,” displaying new technologies made by young Pakistani entrepreneurs. This initiative focused on promoting innovation and developing a sustainable defence sector driven by local talent.
