“We believe in combining our strengths with local expertise to innovate and produce advanced defence solutions that cater to the specific needs of the region while also contributing to the global defence landscape,” says Asad Kamal, Chief Executive Officer · Global Industrial & Defence Solutions (GIDS) in an exclusive interview with Jay Menon of Daily News.

How important is Malaysia and the DSA event for Pakistan and Global Industrial and Defence Solutions?

Malaysia and the DSA defence event are pivotal for us. They provide a strategic platform to foster bilateral ties, showcase our defence capabilities, and pursue technological advancements. The DSA’s global stage is crucial for expanding our reach and securing partnerships that align with Pakistan’s defence vision and GIDS’s growth objectives. It’s a unique opportunity for innovation exchange and business development in the defence sector.

Several South East Asian countries also aspire to develop bilateral cooperation with Pakistan. What is GIDS aiming to get from this cooperation?

Our aim with the South East Asian countries is to forge strategic partnerships that enhance defense capabilities and regional security. We aim to broaden our market, share technological advancements and collaborate on R&D. These efforts are not only about expanding our business but also about contributing to a stable and peaceful international environment. Through such collaborations, we seek to establish a strong presence in the defense sector, ensuring mutual benefits and security for all parties involved.

What is your take on technological collaboration? And what is GIDS doing on this front being a defence supplier?

Technological collaboration is vital for innovation and progress in defence. At GIDS, we are actively engaging in partnerships, like our defence collaboration with Turkiye to enhance our technological capabilities. We’re also pioneering future-ready solutions, including advanced UCAVs and air defence systems, as part of our commitment to global security and defence preparedness. These initiatives reflect our dedication to being at the forefront of defence technology and supplying our clients with cutting-edge solutions.

GIDS’ future roadmap ranges from improved variants of existing, mainstay solutions – such as the Fatah-series of surface-to-surface missiles (SSM) and Burq-series air-to-ground missiles (AGM) – to newly revealed systems, like the “Group 5 UCAV” or “LOMADS” SAM system. Is there any fixed timeline for this?

GIDS roadmap is ambitious and forward-looking. While specific timelines for the deployment of systems like the Group 5 UCAV or LOMADS SAM are subject to strategic considerations and developmental progress, we are committed to advancing these projects diligently. Our goal is to ensure that these advanced systems, along with the improved variants of the Fatah and Burq missiles, meet the highest standards of quality and performance before they are operationalized. We are working closely with our partners and stakeholders to bring these innovative solutions to fruition in a timely manner.

Earlier this year, the company unveiled the Fatah-II multiple rocket launcher (MRL). Could you please throw some light on this system?

I am proud to discuss the Fatah-II Guided Multi Launch Rocket System (GMLRS), a significant advancement in our defense capabilities. Unveiled earlier this year, the Fatah-II is an upgraded Guided Multi Launch Rocket System designed for precision and extended range. It boasts a 280 km range with a (CEP) of less than 50 meters, ensuring accuracy in striking strategic targets. The system is equipped with advanced avionics and a sophisticated navigation system, making it a formidable addition to Pakistan’s conventional strike package.

Can you update us on the plans to further enhance the Shahpar-II UAV platform by testing the Burq- II missile?

I am pleased to share that our commitment to advancing Pakistan’s defense capabilities continues with significant developments in our unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platforms.

Our team is diligently working on the Shahpar III Group 4 UCAV, a testament to our dedication to innovation and technological advancement. The Shahpar III represents a major leap in our indigenous drone capabilities, featuring enhanced endurance, operational ceiling, and weapons carriage capacity. With two engine configurations available.

We are proud of these advancements and remain committed to contributing to Pakistan’s self-sufficiency in defense technologies.

Has any allied countries expressed interest in procuring this advanced drone after its latest demonstration?

As the CEO of GIDS, I can confirm that following the latest demonstration of our advanced Shahpar-II Block II drone, several allied countries have expressed keen interest in procurement. High-ranking military officials from multiple nations attended the demonstration, where the Shahpar-II showcased its superior capabilities. The successful engagement of targets at 14,000 feet using the Burq missile was particularly impressive to our allies. We are optimistic that this interest will translate into solid partnerships and agreements, furthering our commitment to providing state-of-the-art defense solutions on a global scale.

What are the products you are highlighting at DSA?

As the CEO of Global Industrial and Defence Solutions (GIDS), I am proud to announce that at the Defence Services Asia (DSA) 2024 exhibition, we are showcasing a range of cutting-edge defence products that underscore our commitment to innovation and excellence in defense technologies.

Our highlight is the Shahpar III UAV, a futuristic unmanned aerial vehicle designed for advanced reconnaissance and precision strike missions. This Group 4 MALE UCAV is a testament to our capabilities in indigenous UAV technology, offering enhanced operational flexibility and strike power.

In addition to the Shahpar III, we are presenting the Anza Manpads, a highly portable and effective air-defense system, and the Baktar Shikan ATGM, an anti-tank guided missile that provides our forces with formidable anti-armor capabilities.

Our exhibit also includes advanced Naval Simulators and systems that offer realistic training environments for naval operations, and state-of-the-art Thermal Sights that ensure superior target acquisition in various combat scenarios.

Furthermore, we are displaying the Fatah GMLRS rocket, a versatile and powerful rocket system, alongside a range of precision-guided bombs that enhance our strike capabilities.

These products represent GIDS’s dedication to equipping our defense forces with the tools they need to maintain a strategic edge. We are excited to share these advancements with our partners and stakeholders at DSA.

Could you please throw some light on your ongoing programs and projects in the South East Asian and Asia Pacific region in general and Malaysia in particular?

I am excited to share our engagement in the South East Asian and Asia Pacific regions. This region has shown a keen interest in our Baktar Shikan ATGMs and ANZA MK IV Manpad systems. In Malaysia, we’re advancing our cooperation through the Defence Services Asia (DSA) – 2024 expo, where we will be showcase our cutting-edge defense solutions including Baktar Shikan Salvo ATGMs. Our ongoing projects aim to enhance regional security architectures and provide robust defense capabilities, ensuring that our partners have access to the best in Pakistani defense technology.

Are you looking at any local partners in Malaysia and other countries here to co-develop defence equipment?

GIDS is seeking partnerships in Malaysia and other countries for co-development in defence technology. Our participation in the Defence Services Asia (DSA) – 2024 in Kuala Lumpur is a testament to our commitment to fostering international collaborations. We believe in combining our strengths with local expertise to innovate and produce advanced defence solutions that cater to the specific needs of the region while also contributing to the global defence landscape.

What is your vision as CEO of the company? What are GIDS business plans for the year 2024 and beyond?

As the CEO of GIDS, my vision is to establish Pakistan as a premier defense technology innovator, recognized globally for quality and reliability. For 2024 and beyond, our business plans include expanding our product range, showcasing capabilities at international expos like DSA-2024, ADEX 2024 and IDEAS 2024 and strengthening ties with strategic allies. We’re focused on technological advancements, particularly in areas like guided missile systems and UAVs, to meet modern defense challenges. Collaborations and technology transfers, especially with brotherly countries from Middle East and Africa are key to our strategy, supporting to our future Vision and diversifying our own economic and defense industry growth.