India vs Pakistan Drone Capabilities: A Detailed Review

India and Pakistan’s cross-border tension has entered a new conflict phase. Drones play a key role in both nations’ military arsenals. India and Pakistan now use Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for surveillance, intelligence, and targeted strikes. However, there is a big gap in the number, capability, and origin of these UAVs. Each country claims to intercept the other’s drones to assert control of the skies. Despite drones’ growing importance in modern warfare, their effectiveness in high-stakes scenarios remains largely untested. As both nuclear powers enhance their drone warfare, the stakes in this aerial battle increase. This situation brings new challenges for security, strategy, and international stability.

Disparity in UAV Quantities

India and Pakistan have a clear difference in their UAV fleets. India has about 200 Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAVs, 980 mini-UAVs, and more models being procured. On the other hand, Pakistan’s fleet is much smaller. It includes around 60 MALE UAVs, 60 naval UAVs, 70 air force tactical UAVs, 100 army tactical UAVs, and some mini-UAVs. While sources may vary, the gap in UAV numbers between the two countries is clear. This shows a difference in their military capabilities.

Procurement Origins and Strategic Preferences

India and Pakistan have both worked on building their own UAV programs lately. Still, much of their drone fleets rely on international imports. This shows their strategic choices in procurement. India mainly buys UAVs from Israel and the United States. Notable models include the Heron series and the MQ-9B SeaGuardian. In contrast, Pakistan’s UAV fleet mainly includes Turkish and Chinese systems. Key models are the Bayraktar TB2 and CH-4, reflecting a different sourcing strategy for military tech.

Technological Gaps and Battlefield Integration

Both nations have improved their UAV capabilities, but they differ greatly in technology and effectiveness. India uses advanced loitering munitions like the Israeli-made Harop and Harpy. These drones are meant for precise strikes and electronic warfare. On the other hand, Pakistan relies on the Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones, known for their success in the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh War. These different choices show the varying levels of battlefield integration, combat use, and operational experience in each country.

Read More: Rafale vs JF17 Thunder and Su30 vs F-16: A Comparative Analysis

India’s UAVs

Harpy

Feature	Details
Type	Loitering munition, precision-guided weapon
Manufacturer	Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI)
Primary Mission	Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) and Destruction of Enemy Air Defenses (DEAD)
Operation	Fully autonomous; operates in “fire-and-forget” mode, capable of self-guided attack
Targeting System	Anti-radiation seeker; homes in on radar emissions to locate and strike enemy radar systems
Loitering Time	Up to 9 hours, allowing for extended surveillance and strike capabilities
Range	Up to 500 km, providing long-range strike potential
Warhead	32 kg high-explosive warhead, designed for significant damage to enemy radar and air defense systems
Speed	Approximately 700 km/h, enabling rapid response and evasion of countermeasures
Weight	135 kg, compact enough for air deployment from various platforms
Guidance	GPS/INS with real-time communication for mid-course corrections and targeting updates
Cost	$4 million per unit, positioning it as a high-cost but highly effective system for SEAD/DEAD operations
Deployment Platforms	Air-launched from platforms like fighter aircraft, UAVs, or drones
Operational History	Used by multiple countries, including Israel, India, and others in various military operations
Countermeasures	Can be countered by advanced jamming systems, but its autonomous nature and radar-seeking capability make it highly resilient to traditional air defenses

Harop

Feature	Details
Type	Loitering munition with surveillance, strike, and reconnaissance capabilities
Developer	Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI)
Primary Mission	Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD), Destruction of Enemy Air Defenses (DEAD), precision strikes on high-value targets
Loitering Time	Up to 9 hours, allowing prolonged surveillance and engagement of targets over extended periods
Operational Range	Up to 1,000 km, enabling deep standoff strikes far behind enemy lines
Payload	23 kg high-explosive warhead, designed to incapacitate radar systems, air defense installations, and other key targets
Launch Platforms	Canister-launched from land vehicles, naval vessels, and configured for air launch, offering flexibility in deployment
Jamming Resistance	Immune to GNSS/satellite navigation jamming, providing reliable operation in contested or GPS-denied environments
Attack Profile	Can engage targets from multiple angles, with an option to return if the target is not found, reducing risk of collateral damage
Speed	Mach 0.8 (~980 km/h), ensuring rapid engagement and minimizing response time from adversaries
Guidance System	Anti-radiation seeker for radar targeting, GPS/INS for navigation, and real-time data transmission for targeting updates
Countermeasures	Advanced counter-countermeasures (CCM) such as radar and GPS signal resistance, allowing it to evade enemy defenses
Weight	Approximately 135 kg, optimized for launching from various platforms while maintaining operational efficiency
Cost	Estimated at $2-4 million per unit, positioning it as a high-value but effective asset for modern warfare
Deployment History	Deployed by Israel and other nations for operations including air defense suppression and precision strikes on high-value targets
Autonomy	Fully autonomous, capable of “fire-and-forget” missions, minimizing operator input and reducing the risk of human error

MQ-9 Reaper

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	General Atomics (USA)
Role	Armed reconnaissance, surveillance, and precision strike; designed for both intelligence gathering and targeted strikes
Combat History	Extensively used in operational theaters like Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria for surveillance, reconnaissance, and strikes against high-value targets
Payload Capacity	Up to 1,700 kg; capable of carrying a variety of munitions including Hellfire missiles, GBU precision bombs, and advanced sensors for intelligence gathering
Endurance	27 hours, allowing for long-duration surveillance and strike missions without requiring frequent refueling or repositioning
Range	1,850 km, with satellite control capabilities enabling global operations, providing flexibility for missions far from home bases
Sensor Suite	Equipped with advanced EO/IR (Electro-optical/Infrared) sensors for day/night surveillance, Lynx Multimode Radar for real-time target tracking, and Electronic Support Measures (ESM) for signal intelligence
Navigation Systems	161 embedded GPS/inertial navigation systems for precise positioning, with 35 L3 Rio Grande communication and intelligence sensor suites for real-time data transmission
Variants Acquired by India	MQ-9B SeaGuardian and MQ-9B SkyGuardian, which are tailored for maritime and land-based surveillance, respectively, with additional capabilities for anti-submarine warfare and intelligence operations
Purchase Cost	Approximately $32 million per unit (excluding the cost of missiles, bombs, and advanced sensors); considered a significant investment for national defense budgets
Operational Flexibility	Can be used in a wide range of environments, from desert warfare to maritime patrols, with adaptability to changing mission parameters and operational theaters
Autonomy	Fully autonomous flight capability, reducing the need for direct operator control during long missions, improving mission efficiency and safety
Reliability	Proven reliability in combat with numerous successful missions; high levels of operational uptime and minimal failure rates under combat conditions
Countermeasures	Designed to operate in contested environments with features like jamming resistance, secure communications, and the ability to avoid detection through stealthy flight profiles

Rustom-II

Feature	Details
Developer	Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), India
Role	Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR); designed with future strike capabilities for precision strikes and strategic defense
Payload Capacity	350 kg, capable of carrying Electro-Optical (EO) sensors, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), and various other surveillance equipment
Endurance	12 hours, providing extended operational coverage for ISR missions without requiring frequent refueling or repositioning
Range	180–200 km, with plans for future upgrades to significantly increase range, extending its operational reach
Sensor & Equipment Suite	Equipped with Communication Intelligence (COMINT), Electronic Intelligence (ELINT), Maritime Patrol Radar, Synthetic Aperture Radar, and Medium- and Long-Range Electro-Optics for comprehensive surveillance capabilities
Stealth Features	Airframe constructed with 3mm Kevlar and Carbon Fibre Composite (CFC) to minimize radar signature, enhancing survivability in contested airspace
Weapons Capability	Compatible with Helina Anti-Guided Tank Missiles (AGTM) and laser-guided rockets, enabling offensive capabilities alongside ISR roles
Purchase Cost	$5–6 million per unit, positioning it as a cost-effective option for nations focused on indigenous development and procurement
Maintenance Cost	20–30% lower than imported drones due to indigenous production and domestic supply chains, offering long-term savings on upkeep
Lifecycle	12–15 years, offering a durable service life, with potential for upgrades and integration of future technologies throughout its operational tenure
Operational Status	Currently in the testing and induction phase; reflects India’s emphasis on self-reliance in defense technology development, particularly in UAV systems
Future Prospects	Expected to undergo further enhancements to improve strike capabilities, range, and integration with India’s broader defense strategy
Customization Potential	Designed for flexible configuration, making it adaptable for various missions, including surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strikes
Deployment Platforms	Capable of being deployed from land-based platforms, naval vessels, and potentially air-launched systems in the future

Pakistan’s  UAVs

Bayraktar Akıncı

Feature	Details
Origin	Turkey
Class	High-Altitude Long-Endurance (HALE) Combat UAV
Primary Role	Air-to-air and air-to-ground combat missions; versatile in both surveillance and precision strikes
Length	12.2 meters, providing a long fuselage for optimal aerodynamics and payload capacity
Height	4.1 meters, offering a streamlined profile for high-altitude, long-duration flight
Wingspan	20 meters, ensuring high lift-to-drag ratio for efficient flight at high altitudes
Maximum Take-Off Weight	6,000 kg, allowing for heavy payloads, including various munitions and surveillance systems
Payload Capacity	1,500 kg, capable of carrying a range of armaments including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, precision-guided munitions (PGMs), and surveillance sensors
Operational Ceiling	40,000 feet, enabling it to operate in the upper reaches of airspace, avoiding detection by conventional defense systems
Armament Capability	Equipped with an array of air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, as well as laser-guided bombs and precision-guided munitions for surgical strikes
Significance	One of the most advanced and capable combat drones in Pakistan’s UAV arsenal, increasing its effectiveness in modern warfare scenarios
Endurance	Long endurance, capable of staying in the air for up to 30+ hours, making it ideal for persistent reconnaissance and extended combat operations
Sensors & Payloads	Equipped with high-performance EO/IR (Electro-optical/Infrared) sensors, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and advanced communication systems for real-time data transfer
Stealth Features	Designed with low radar cross-section (RCS) features, enhancing its survivability in hostile environments
Navigation System	GPS/INS-based navigation system for precise targeting and flight control, supported by advanced avionics for stability and autonomy
Jamming Resistance	Enhanced resistance to GPS jamming and electronic warfare (EW) threats, ensuring operational capability in contested environments
Cost	Estimated at $25–30 million per unit, positioning it as a high-value asset in modern aerial combat operations
Lifecycle	Designed for a service life of 15–20 years with regular upgrades, ensuring continued effectiveness across evolving battlefield technologies
Deployment Platforms	Capable of operating from both ground-based airstrips and potentially from naval platforms for maritime operations
Future Prospects	Likely to receive upgrades in payload capacity, range, and advanced munitions, making it a key component in future military strategy
Combat Record	Proven operational effectiveness in various combat scenarios, contributing to Turkey’s influence in UAV technology development

Bayraktar TB2

Feature	Details
Type	Tactical Armed Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)
Origin	Turkey
Manufacturer	Baykar Technologies
Length	6.5 meters, providing a compact yet stable airframe for tactical operations and improved maneuverability
Wingspan	12 meters, offering excellent lift and stability, crucial for endurance and accuracy in tactical missions
Maximum Take-Off Weight	700 kg, enabling it to carry a significant payload while maintaining fuel efficiency and operational range
Payload Capacity	150 kg, capable of carrying a variety of precision-guided munitions (PGMs), surveillance equipment, and targeting systems
Cruising Speed	130 km/h, providing an optimal balance between endurance and operational efficiency for surveillance and strike missions
Maximum Speed	220 km/h, offering the speed necessary to engage targets quickly and escape from hostile areas
Endurance	Up to 27 hours, allowing for prolonged reconnaissance, surveillance, and strike operations with minimal need for refueling
Operational Altitude	18,000 feet (5,486 meters), enabling high-altitude surveillance and standoff capabilities
Primary Roles	Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, Reconnaissance (ISTAR), and strike missions, making it versatile for a range of military operations
Armament Capability	Equipped with MAM-L and MAM-C smart micro munitions, designed for precision strikes on both moving and stationary targets
Notable Combat Use	Played a major role in conflicts such as Libya, Syria, and the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh War, where it demonstrated effectiveness in both ISR and strike roles
Navigation System	Advanced GPS and INS-based navigation, with autonomous flight capabilities and real-time data-sharing for operational flexibility
Stealth Features	Features a reduced radar cross-section (RCS) design, enhancing its survivability during operational missions in contested airspaces
Jamming Resistance	Enhanced anti-jamming features for GPS and communication systems, ensuring operational effectiveness in electronic warfare environments
Deployment Platforms	Capable of launching from land-based airstrips or mobile platforms, suitable for both tactical and strategic deployment
Cost	Estimated at $2–3 million per unit, offering a cost-effective solution for modern military operations
Maintenance	Designed for easy maintenance with modular components, reducing downtime and operational costs
Lifecycle	Typically has a service life of 10–15 years with options for upgrades to extend operational effectiveness and introduce newer technologies
Future Prospects	Expected to receive further upgrades to enhance combat capabilities, range, and integration with other UAVs in future military operations
Customizability	Can be tailored for various mission types, with modular payloads for surveillance, electronic warfare, and strike capabilities

CH-4

Feature	Details
Type	Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) Combat UAV
Origin	China
Manufacturer	China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC)
Length	8.5 meters, providing a balanced airframe for long-duration flights while maintaining stability and control during combat operations
Wingspan	18 meters, designed to optimize fuel efficiency and enhance endurance for extended operational range
Maximum Take-Off Weight	1,330 kg, allowing for the integration of a wide range of surveillance and combat equipment
Payload Capacity	345 kg, capable of carrying precision-guided bombs, air-to-surface missiles, and surveillance sensors
Endurance	Up to 40 hours for the CH-4A variant (primarily for ISR missions) and 14 hours for the CH-4B variant (combat-focused)
Operational Ceiling	26,000 feet (approximately 8,000 meters), providing high-altitude capability to avoid radar detection and engage targets at standoff distances
Range	2,000–5,000 km, depending on the version and satellite link, enabling extended surveillance and precision strike missions across large areas
Cruising Speed	180 km/h, offering an efficient balance between endurance and responsiveness during reconnaissance or combat operations
Primary Roles	Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance (ISR), and precision strike missions, making it versatile in both tactical and strategic roles
Armament Capability	Can carry a range of guided bombs and air-to-surface missiles, including the AR-1, FT-9, and HJ-10, designed for precise strikes against both stationary and moving targets
Navigation & Sensors	Equipped with advanced sensors such as synthetic aperture radar (SAR), electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, and GPS/INS navigation for precise targeting
Jamming Resistance	Features anti-jamming technology to counter GPS and communication interference, ensuring continued operational effectiveness in contested environments
Stealth Features	Designed with a reduced radar cross-section (RCS) to enhance its survivability against enemy air defense systems
Deployment Platforms	Can be launched from fixed ground-based airstrips or mobile platforms, offering flexibility for both strategic and tactical operations
Cost	Estimated at $1–2 million per unit, offering a cost-effective solution for sustained surveillance and strike missions
Lifecycle	Designed for a service life of 10–15 years, with potential for upgrades to enhance payload capacity, sensor suites, and strike capabilities
Combat Record	Has been used in various military operations, showcasing its capability for both ISR and precision strikes in hostile environments
Maintenance	Modular design for easier maintenance, reducing downtime and operational costs, with improved support through indigenous manufacturing
Future Upgrades	Potential upgrades include enhanced sensors, larger payload capacity, longer endurance, and improved stealth capabilities for future warfare scenarios
Operational Status	Widely used by China and exported to several countries, marking its effectiveness and reliability in combat and surveillance roles

Shahpar

Feature	Details
Type	Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)
Developer	Global Industrial Defence Solutions (GIDS) in collaboration with National Engineering and Scientific Commission (NESCOM)
Fuselage Length	4.2 meters, designed for compact size to facilitate quick deployments and tactical operations
Wingspan	6.6 meters, optimized for flight stability and endurance, balancing maneuverability with sufficient lift capacity
Cruising Speed	150 km/h, providing a balance between efficient long-range operation and responsive actions during surveillance and reconnaissance missions
Operational Endurance	Over 7 hours, enabling continuous surveillance and reconnaissance over extended periods for strategic or tactical operations
Maximum Take-Off Weight	480 kg, allowing for the integration of various payloads, including surveillance cameras, communication systems, and light weaponry
Operational Altitude	Up to 5,000 meters, providing the flexibility to operate in both low and high-altitude environments for various operational scenarios
Primary Roles	Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance (ISR), and disaster response, with an emphasis on gathering intelligence and providing real-time data
Payload Capacity	Equipped to carry an array of surveillance equipment such as EO/IR cameras, radar, and communication systems for tactical operations
Sensor Suite	Includes electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), and communications relay equipment for enhanced ISR capabilities
Navigation System	Integrated GPS/INS navigation for precise positioning and geospatial mapping during missions, ensuring accurate data collection
Jamming Resistance	Features anti-jamming technologies to ensure continued communication and navigation in contested or hostile environments
Armament Capability	Can be configured for carrying light precision munitions or payloads for tactical strikes if required in combat scenarios
Stealth Features	While not specifically designed for stealth, the UAV is constructed with materials that help reduce its radar and thermal signatures
Launch Platform	Can be launched from fixed ground-based platforms, mobile ground units, or even forward-deployed teams, offering flexibility in the field
Cost	Estimated at $1–2 million per unit, providing an affordable solution for extended ISR operations and real-time situational awareness
Maintenance	Modular design for ease of maintenance and quicker turnaround times, ensuring high operational availability
Lifecycle	Designed for a service life of approximately 8–10 years, with the potential for upgrades in sensor systems and payload capacity
Combat/Operational Record	Primarily used for surveillance and reconnaissance missions, including border patrols, military operations, and disaster response efforts
Operational Status	Actively deployed by military and paramilitary forces for tactical ISR missions, with growing export demand for its reliability and capabilities
Future Upgrades	Potential for enhanced sensors, improved communication systems, longer endurance, and larger payload capacities for future missions

The launch of the Shahpar II in 2021, followed by the Shahpar-III in 2024, shows Pakistan’s focus on improving its UAV capabilities. The Shahpar II brought significant improvements in endurance and altitude, meeting needs for longer missions in tough conditions. The Shahpar-III builds on this by adding Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) features, along with multi-role combat abilities. This makes it a flexible asset for defense and strategic tasks.

These advancements highlight Pakistan’s commitment to boosting its drone technology. They improve the country’s ability to carry out precision strikes, gather real-time intelligence, and perform various missions effectively. As tensions rise in the region, these UAVs could be vital in Pakistan’s defense strategy, offering both surveillance and offensive options to support military efforts and improve overall effectiveness.