The strategic partnership between Pakistan and Turkey has reached new heights in 2025, underscored by Ankara’s unwavering support for Islamabad during the recent Indo-Pakistan escalation in May. This alliance, rooted in shared geopolitical interests and deepening defense cooperation, has drawn significant attention amid shifting regional dynamics.
Turkey’s Support During May 2025 Indo-Pakistan Escalation
In May 2025, following a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, tensions between India and Pakistan escalated sharply. India launched “Operation Sindoor,” targeting alleged terrorist camps within Pakistan. Turkey, alongside Azerbaijan, publicly expressed support for Pakistan during this period. This stance led to a significant backlash from India, including economic boycotts and public protests against Turkish products and services. (Reuters, The Times of India)
Deepening Defense and Strategic Cooperation
The foundation of the Pakistan-Turkey strategic partnership lies in robust defense collaboration:
- Joint Military Projects: Turkey has assisted Pakistan in upgrading its F-16 fighter jets and Agosta 90B submarines. The two nations have also collaborated on the MILGEM-class corvette project, enhancing Pakistan’s naval capabilities. (ThePrint)
- Drone Technology: Turkey’s Baykar has partnered with Pakistan’s National Aerospace Science and Technology Park to develop advanced UAVs, following Pakistan’s acquisition of Bayraktar TB-2 drones. (ThePrint)
- Fifth-Generation Fighter Program: Pakistan is participating in Turkey’s KAAN fighter jet program, reflecting deepening aerospace collaboration. (ThePrint)
- Joint Exercises: Regular military drills, such as the Ataturk-Jinnah special forces exercises and the Anatolian Eagle air combat training, have enhanced interoperability between the two forces. (ThePrint)
Comprehensive Bilateral Agreements
In February 2025, during President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit to Islamabad, Pakistan and Turkey signed 24 agreements across various sectors:(Islamabad Scene)
- Defense and Security: Agreements focused on electronic warfare cooperation, military health training, and defense production. (Türkiye Today)
- Economic Collaboration: Both nations aim to boost bilateral trade to $5 billion, with initiatives to facilitate trade and investment. (NHS Media)
- Energy and Infrastructure: MoUs were signed for cooperation in renewable energy projects and infrastructure development. (NHS Media)
- Cultural and Educational Exchange: Programs were established to promote cultural ties and academic collaboration.
The MILGEM-class Corvette Project
The MILGEM-class corvette project, particularly the Babur-class variant developed for the Pakistan Navy, exemplifies the deepening strategic and defense collaboration between Turkey and Pakistan. This initiative not only enhances Pakistan’s naval capabilities but also signifies a significant transfer of technology and expertise, fostering indigenous shipbuilding proficiency.(Naval News)
Overview of the Babur-Class Corvettes
The Babur-class corvettes are an evolution of Turkey’s Ada-class design, tailored to meet the specific operational requirements of the Pakistan Navy. These vessels are larger and more heavily armed than their Turkish counterparts, incorporating advanced weaponry and sensor suites to address multifaceted maritime threats.(Wikipedia)
Key Specifications:
- Length: Approximately 108.2 meters
- Displacement: Around 2,985 tons
- Speed: Exceeding 26 knots
- Range: Approximately 3,500 nautical miles
- Endurance: Up to 15 days at sea
- Propulsion: Combined Diesel and Gas (CODAG) system
- Crew Complement: 93 personnel, with accommodation for an additional 40(Quwa, Naval News)
Armament and Sensor Suite
The Babur-class corvettes are equipped with a comprehensive array of weapon systems and sensors to ensure versatility in combat scenarios:(Wikipedia)
- Main Gun: 76mm naval gun for surface engagements
- Anti-Ship Missiles: Harbah dual-role cruise missiles capable of striking both sea and land targets
- Surface-to-Air Missiles: 12-cell Vertical Launch System (VLS) housing Albatros NG missiles, offering a range exceeding 45 km
- Close-In Weapon System (CIWS): Aselsan Gökdeniz system for point defense against incoming threats
- Sensors: Advanced radar and electronic warfare systems for surveillance, targeting, and self-protection(Quwa)
Construction and Technology Transfer
A hallmark of the MILGEM project is the significant transfer of technology and expertise from Turkey to Pakistan:(Quwa)
- Construction: The first two corvettes, PNS Babur and PNS Khyber, were constructed at Istanbul Naval Shipyard, while the subsequent vessels, PNS Badr and PNS Tariq, are being built at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works (KS&EW). (Quwa)
- Technology Transfer: The agreement encompasses the transfer of intellectual property rights, enabling Pakistan to domestically produce and modify the vessels, fostering self-reliance in naval shipbuilding. (Quwa)
Strategic Implications
The induction of Babur-class corvettes significantly bolsters Pakistan’s maritime defense posture, particularly in the context of regional security dynamics. The collaboration underscores the strategic partnership between Turkey and Pakistan, facilitating joint development and potential future co-production of advanced naval platforms.(Naval News)
In summary, the MILGEM-class corvette project represents a pivotal advancement in Pakistan’s naval capabilities and a testament to the robust defense cooperation with Turkey. The successful integration of these advanced vessels into the Pakistan Navy not only enhances operational readiness but also lays the groundwork for future indigenous naval development initiatives.
Regional and Global Implications
Turkey’s support for Pakistan during the May 2025 escalation has reinforced their strategic alliance but also strained Ankara’s relations with New Delhi. India’s economic retaliation, including boycotts of Turkish goods and services, underscores the geopolitical risks associated with such alliances. (@EconomicTimes)
Nevertheless, the Pakistan-Turkey partnership continues to strengthen, reflecting a shared vision for regional stability and mutual growth.
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