Pakistan is increasingly relying on drone technology to tackle both internal security threats and the complex dynamics of regional stability. With a history of being impacted by foreign drone operations and a recent surge in cross-border drone activity, Pakistan is developing its drone doctrine. This involves balancing the aggressive use of drones for counterterrorism with the need to prevent escalation in a volatile region.
The Genesis of Pakistan’s Drone Imperative
For years, Pakistan’s airspace was a theatre for foreign drone strikes, primarily from the United States, targeting militant groups in its tribal areas. These strikes, while aimed at counterterrorism, sparked widespread debate about sovereignty, civilian casualties, and long-term consequences.
This experience, coupled with the evolving nature of warfare, pushed Pakistan to develop its indigenous drone capabilities. The goal was to gain control over its airspace and enhance its ability to conduct precise operations.
Pakistan now ranks among the top drone operators globally, alongside the US, UK, and Israel. Its journey began in the late 1990s, with significant progress in recent years.
Drones in Counterterrorism: A Double-Edged Sword
Pakistan has successfully deployed domestically developed armed drones like the Burraq in counterterrorism operations, particularly in difficult terrains like Balochistan, targeting the militant outfits of Fitna-tul-Hindustan. These drones offer precision strikes and enhance situational awareness, helping to target militant hideouts and reduce risks to ground troops.
However, the use of drones in counterterrorism is not without its challenges. Recent drone strikes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, including suspected quadcopter attacks, have raised concerns about civilian casualties. Amnesty International has called on Pakistani authorities to protect civilians from these attacks.
Some analysts argue that drone strikes, while effective in the short term, can cause militants to disperse and relocate, leading to increased violence in new areas and potentially radicalising local populations. This highlights the need for a comprehensive counterterrorism strategy that goes beyond kinetic strikes.
A compilation of Pakistani drone strikes targeting Indian-sponsored terrorists, watch and witness precision in action. ‼️ pic.twitter.com/R8csEbxM4H
— Schlangenjäger (@Shadowfox_11) June 10, 2025
Regional Stability: The India-Pakistan Drone Dynamic
The recent 2025 conflict between India and Pakistan marked a pivotal moment in drone warfare. It was the first time both nuclear-armed rivals extensively used drones as kinetic weapons, showcasing a new dimension to their already tense relationship.
India launched drones like the Harop and SkyStriker, focusing on targeting air defences, mosques, and even civilian populations. Pakistan responded with its drone offensive, reportedly using a mix of Turkish-made (Bayraktar, Akinci) and Chinese-supplied (CH-4, Wing Loong II) drones, alongside its indigenous Burraq and Shahpar systems. The goal was to overwhelm Indian defences and strike military installations.
This drone duel highlights a worrying trend: drones can lower the threshold for military action. Their relatively lower cost and reduced risk to personnel make them attractive for remote escalation, potentially increasing the frequency and intensity of clashes.
The proliferation of advanced drones in South Asia, especially those with AI capabilities and precision strike potential, raises concerns about strategic stability. The ability of drones to target sensitive or even nuclear assets could impact deterrence dynamics, increasing the risk of miscalculation and escalation in a nuclearised environment.
Crafting a Comprehensive Drone Doctrine
Pakistan’s evolving drone doctrine must carefully balance its counterterrorism needs with the imperative of regional stability. This involves several key aspects:
- Indigenous Development and Diversification: Pakistan is investing in its local drone industry and collaborating with countries like Turkey and China to acquire and produce advanced UAVs. This reduces reliance on foreign suppliers and enhances self-reliance.
- Ethical Use and Civilian Protection: A clear doctrine must emphasise adherence to international law and prioritise civilian protection in all drone operations. This involves robust targeting protocols and transparent accountability mechanisms.
- Counter-Drone Capabilities: As drone threats evolve, Pakistan must invest in advanced anti-drone systems to detect and neutralise incoming UAVs. The recent conflict saw India deploying Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction Systems (IDDIS).
- Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs): To mitigate risks in the region, Pakistan and India should consider establishing CBMs specifically for drone operations. This could involve notification protocols for drone activity near sensitive areas.
Pakistan’s drone doctrine is a work in progress, adapting to the rapidly changing landscape of modern warfare. By carefully integrating drones into its defence strategy while prioritising responsible use and regional stability, Pakistan aims to secure its borders and contribute to peace in a complex geopolitical environment.
