KARACHI: The 12th International Defense Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS 2024) is happening at the Karachi Expo Centre from November 19 to 22 (Friday).
This global event attracts defense manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and researchers, encouraging collaboration and innovation in defense and security.
This year, over 350 high-level delegations from 55 countries, including the US, Russia, China, Turkiye, Iran, Italy, the UK, and Azerbaijan, are participating. According to the Associated Press of Pakistan, the four-day event features 560 defense manufacturers, with 333 from abroad. Turkiye and China are major contributors.
Pakistan is showcasing its locally developed defense assets, including the Haider Main Battle Tank (MBT), the Shahpar III medium-altitude long-endurance drone, the Al-Khalid and Al-Zarrar tanks, and the latest Super Mushshak Aircraft model.
The Haider tank, introduced in March, is a joint effort by Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT) and China’s state-owned Norinco.
Additionally, Pakistan is unveiling the Haadif Small Arms Simulator, a homegrown training system aimed at improving soldiers’ combat skills and shooting accuracy.
The Haadif simulator supports training with various weapons like the G3 rifle, light machine guns, submachine guns, and pistols. It allows soldiers to practice with stationary and moving targets, preparing them for challenges in terrains like mountains and deserts.
