Pakistan’s Al-Khalid Tank Program Faces Setback Amid Financial Constraints
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Pakistan’s economic crisis is now impacting its military modernization efforts, specifically the upgrade of its main battle tank, Al-Khalid.
The Al-Khalid main battle tank program, a cornerstone of Pakistan’s Armoured Corps, has hit a roadblock due to financial constraints. The program, which aimed to upgrade the existing Al-Khalid tanks, has been put on hold.
The Al-Khalid tank, developed by Heavy Industries Taxila, is based on the Chinese NORINCO Type-90-II MBT and forms the backbone of Pakistan’s armoured forces with approximately 600 tanks in service. The tank boasts a 125mm smoothbore main gun and is powered by a 6TD-2 liquid-cooled diesel engine.
In 2018, Heavy Industries Taxila signed a contract with M/S ASTRO TECH for the development of Al-Khalid-1 Phase-II.
As per latest development Exclusively accessed by Bharat Fact News, a meeting held on October 3, 2024, decided to short-close the contract and re-tender due to shortage of funds. The production of Al-Khalid-1 Phase-II was halted because of major design changes, which would require significant expenditures.
“The Al-Khalid tank, with approximately 600 in service, is a crucial component of Pakistan’s defense strategy. Heavy Industries Taxila has been working on upgrading the tank’s design, including the development of the Al-Khalid-1 Phase-II. However, progress has been slow due to financial constraints.” As per the sources aware about the development.
Pakistan’s armor modernization efforts focus on countering the threat from India, rather than internal counterinsurgency operations. The country seeks to upgrade its tank fleet, including the Al-Khalid, to maintain parity with India’s military capabilities.
The Al-Khalid 2 program, unveiled at the 2016 International Defence Exhibition and Seminar, promised significant upgrades, including a 1,500 HP diesel engine and advanced electronics suite. However, the project’s progress has been slow due to financial constraints and the decade-long counterinsurgency campaign in the Tribal Areas.
The setback raises concerns about Pakistan’s ability to modernize its armoured forces amidst regional security challenges. The Al-Khalid tank program is a crucial component of Pakistan’s defence strategy, with its advanced features and capabilities playing a vital role in the country’s military preparedness.
The Al-Khalid tank is equipped with a range of advanced systems, including a 125mm smoothbore main gun, Russian-designed 9M119 ATGM, and Pakistani Naiza 125mm depleted uranium round. Its 6TD-2 liquid-cooled diesel engine provides reliable power, while its advanced electronics suite enables effective combat performance.
The delay in the Al-Khalid upgrade program may have significant implications for Pakistan’s military modernization efforts, underscoring the need for sustained investment in defence capabilities.
