COAS Visits IDEAS-2024, Lauds Global Participation

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir visited the International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS-2024) at Karachi Expo Centre on Wednesday, highlighting Pakistan’s growing role in the global defense industry. The four-day event, which began on November 19, features a diverse showcase of advanced military technologies and defense equipment.

During his visit, General Munir praised the active involvement of domestic and international defense manufacturers, noting the impressive display of cutting-edge arms and equipment.

A total of 557 exhibitors are participating, including 333 international and 224 domestic participants. Notably, 36 countries have set up stalls, with 17 of them joining the exhibition for the first time.

A key highlight of IDEAS-2024 was the unveiling of the Shahpar-III, a state-of-the-art combat Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) developed by Global Industrial Defence Solutions (GIDS) Pakistan. This advanced UAV, with an operational ceiling of 35,000 feet and over 24 hours of endurance, is equipped to deploy a range of munitions, including bombs, missiles, and torpedoes, showcasing Pakistan’s technological strides in defense innovation.

The event has drawn over 300 foreign delegates from 53 countries, reflecting international confidence in Pakistan’s defense capabilities. General Munir also engaged in discussions with foreign military officials and defense delegates, strengthening ties with key international partners.

The COAS’s visit underlined the importance of fostering defense collaborations. “The active participation of friendly nations in IDEAS-2024 demonstrates growing confidence in Pakistan’s defense industry,” the Army’s media wing stated.

Upon his arrival in Karachi, General Asim Munir was welcomed by Corps Commander Karachi, Lieutenant General Babar Iftikhar.