US Magazine Sees Pakistan-Saudi-Türkiye Defence Cooperation as New Industrial Hub

ISLAMABAD: A report by the US magazine The National Interest says the combination of Pakistan’s military expertise, Saudi Arabia’s financial resources and Türkiye’s defence technology could lay the foundation for a strong new defence industrial hub.

The report said the Makkah Agreement could develop beyond its diplomatic and military impact and potentially become the basis for an integrated defence industrial system.

According to the report, Pakistan is an emerging power in the global defence market and has the ability to export a wide range of land, naval and air defence systems.

It highlighted Pakistan’s ability to produce armoured vehicles, weapons and ammunition on a large scale. The report said combining these capabilities with Saudi investment and advanced Turkish technology could significantly strengthen joint defence production.

Pakistan’s maintenance and logistics capabilities were also described as important strengths. These services help keep defence equipment and systems operational for longer periods.

The report noted that Pakistan has invested heavily in assembling and rebuilding military equipment over several decades, helping strengthen its defence industrial base.

Pakistan’s defence industry is also producing land, naval and air systems for international markets, with a focus on quality, large-scale production and relatively lower costs.

The report highlighted the role of key Pakistani defence organisations. Heavy Industries Taxila produces armoured vehicles, Pakistan Aeronautical Complex manufactures combat and training aircraft as well as UAVs, while Karachi Shipyard builds naval vessels.

The National Interest said the Makkah defence agreement could combine Saudi investment, advanced Turkish technology and Pakistan’s defence production capabilities to create a joint platform for defence exports.

Such cooperation could also help reduce pressure on US defence production capacity by creating additional sources of military equipment.

The report said cooperation between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye has the potential to emerge as a new force in global defence production and exports.

It added that the agreement could also provide countries with limited defence budgets greater access to modern military equipment.