12th International Defense Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) 2024
The 12th International Defense Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) 2024, held from November 19 to 22 at the Karachi Expo Centre, concluded with remarkable achievements, reinforcing its status as a premier defense industry event. Organized by the Ministry of Defense and the Defense Export Promotion Organization (DEPO), the four-day exhibition highlighted Pakistan’s technological progress and its role in fostering international cooperation in the defense sector.
Event highlights and participation
IDEAS 2024 drew participation from over 55 countries, including 17 new entrants including Iran, Italy, and the United Kingdom, etc. A total of 557 exhibitors, including 224 local and 333 international companies, showcased cutting-edge defense technologies and equipment. Notable exhibits included Pakistan’s domestically developed Haider tank and Shahpar-3 drone, signifying advancements in the nation’s self-reliance in defense. The exhibition also featured a dedicated hall for defense start-ups, where innovative solutions attracted significant interest from industry experts and potential collaborators. The event provided an expansive and efficient platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration by spanning six halls and three additional marquees.
Key outcomes and agreements
The event facilitated strategic alliances and trade discussions, with the signing of 82 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) across various defense categories. Major public sector entities such as Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT), Pakistan Ordnance Factory (POF) Wah, Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) Kamra, and the National Radio & Telecommunication Corporation (NRTC) were at the forefront of these agreements. A landmark MoU was signed between Turkiye and POF Wah for the establishment of a manufacturing plant, while NRTC secured agreements with Middle Eastern and African countries, including a letter of intent (LOI) for air defense radars. A private Pakistani firm also signed a significant MoU worth Rs. 10 billion with Switzerland.
Technology-driven defense start-ups, supported by Pakistan’s armed forces, secured 15 MoUs to establish technology parks, signaling promising growth in defense innovation. Five new export destinations in Africa and East Asia emerged during IDEAS, expanding Pakistan’s defense export horizons in technology, surveillance, electronic warfare, and radar systems.
Financial impact and export potential
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Secretary of Defence Production Lt. Gen. (Retd) Chiragh Haider highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing negotiations for MoUs worth approximately $36 billion, with the potential to translate into export orders over the coming years. He noted that Pakistan had achieved defense exports worth $1.3 billion in the past three years, averaging $450 million annually. DEPO Director General Major General Asad Nawaz Khan emphasized the encouraging progress made through these agreements, noting their potential to contribute significantly to Pakistan’s defense export growth.
Conclusion
IDEAS 2024 was a resounding success, showcasing Pakistan’s advancements in defense technology and reinforcing its global partnerships. With its impressive turnout, innovative exhibits, and strategic agreements, the event not only strengthened Pakistan’s defense export potential but also positioned the country as a key player in the global defense industry. The achievements of IDEAS 2024 underline its critical role in promoting international cooperation and technological innovation in defense.
