(By Khalid Masood)
Introduction
Pakistan’s military arsenal has taken a bold leap forward with the introduction of Sarkash and Sarfarosh, two domestically developed loitering munitions. These autonomous drones, therefore, mark a significant shift in Pakistan’s defence strategy. For instance, they embody the concept of “Hyperwar,” where scalable, autonomous systems redefine modern warfare. Unveiled at the 2024 International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS), these drones signal Pakistan’s ambition to lead in unmanned warfare. This article explores the technical capabilities of Sarkash and Sarfarosh, their strategic role, and their impact on South Asia’s security landscape.
Technical Overview of Sarkash and Sarfarosh
Pakistan’s new drones are designed for precision and autonomy, distinguishing them from traditional munitions. Specifically, loitering munitions hover over battlefields, waiting for targets to emerge. Unlike missiles with fixed trajectories, these systems offer flexibility. For example, they can strike moving targets or abort missions if needed. Both Sarkash and Sarfarosh, therefore, represent Pakistan’s push for indigenous innovation.
Sarkash: Tactical Precision
Sarkash is a lightweight, infantry-launched loitering munition. It integrates intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) with strike capabilities. Moreover, it operates autonomously, requiring minimal human guidance. Its key features include:
- Targets: Radar arrays, artillery batteries, and command posts.
- Design: Compact, ideal for mass production in tens of thousands.
- Integration: Compatible with platforms like the Shahpar III UAV, equipped with RIBAT ELINT systems.
For instance, a Shahpar III can detect a radar signature 60 kilometers away and cue Sarkash units to strike from multiple angles. This ensures rapid, precise attacks without manned aircraft. Consequently, Sarkash is a game-changer for tactical operations.
Sarfarosh: Strategic Reach
Sarfarosh, meaning “he who is willing to sacrifice,” is a canister-launched kamikaze drone for strategic missions. Its specifications are impressive:
- Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW): 175 kg
- Range: 1,000 km
- Endurance: Over 120 minutes
- Warhead: 25–50 kg (blast fragmentation or special payloads)
- Propulsion: Turbojet
- Deployment: Land, sea, or fixed installations
Unlike Sarkash, Sarfarosh targets high-value assets like logistical hubs and airbases. In saturation mode, multiple units can overwhelm enemy defences. Thus, it offers Pakistan a long-range, theater-level strike capability.
Strategic Significance
The induction of Sarkash and Sarfarosh reflects Pakistan’s doctrinal shift toward autonomous, distributed warfare. Specifically, these drones move away from centralized, manned platforms. For example, they enable proactive suppression of enemy air defences (SEAD). Moreover, their mass production potential ensures scalability. This aligns with the concept of Hyperwar, where autonomous systems dominate battlefields with minimal human intervention.
Pakistan’s investment in platforms like the Shahpar III and RIBAT system complements these drones. For instance, the integration of ISR, target acquisition, and autonomous engagement creates a layered architecture. Sarkash handles tactical strikes, while Sarfarosh delivers strategic suppression. Consequently, Pakistan gains a versatile, attritable arsenal, reducing reliance on costly manned assets.
Additionally, the 2024 IDEAS exhibition showcased other munitions, like the Blaze series (Blaze 25, 50, 75), with ranges from 75 to 500 km. These further enhance Pakistan’s capabilities, particularly for anti-tank and medium-range missions.
Regional Dynamics and India-Pakistan Drone Rivalry
The deployment of Sarkash and Sarfarosh intensifies the drone arms race with India. For instance, India’s Operation Sindoor in May 2025 utilized Israeli Harop drones and indigenous SkyStriker munitions to strike Pakistani targets. Pakistan responded with Operation Bunyaan al-Marsoos, deploying 300–400 drones, including Chinese and Turkish models. However, India’s S-400 and Akash systems neutralized many of these, highlighting vulnerabilities in Pakistan’s imported drones.
Pakistan’s domestic drones address these weaknesses. Unlike Turkish and Chinese models, Sarkash and Sarfarosh are designed for mass production and autonomy. For example, Sarkash’s stealth and swarm capabilities counter India’s advanced defences. Similarly, Sarfarosh’s 1,000 km range threatens deep Indian infrastructure. Thus, Pakistan aims to offset India’s numerical and technological edge.
The May 2025 conflict underscored drones’ growing role in South Asia. Both nations used loitering munitions for precision strikes, avoiding full-scale war. However, Pakistan’s reliance on foreign supply chains remains a concern. Domestic production of Sarkash and Sarfarosh, therefore, strengthens strategic autonomy.
Challenges and Ethical Considerations
While innovative, these drones raise challenges. For instance, autonomous systems like Sarkash and Sarfarosh operate with limited human input, sparking debates about Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems (LAWS). Specifically, their ability to select targets independently raises concerns under International Humanitarian Law (IHL). Critics argue such systems risk unintended civilian casualties.
Moreover, electronic warfare (EW) poses a threat. India’s D4 system and jammers neutralized Pakistani drones in May 2025. Pakistan is countering this by integrating AI and machine learning, enabling drones to operate in EW-dense environments. For example, the Sarkash-I leverages AI for swarm maneuvers, enhancing resilience.
Future Implications
Pakistan’s investment in autonomous drones signals a long-term strategy. For instance, integrating Sarkash and Sarfarosh with next-generation missiles like Fatah-2 could overwhelm India’s defences. Additionally, partnerships with Turkey for TAI Anka drones bolster capabilities.
However, sustaining this momentum requires addressing supply chain vulnerabilities. Domestic production mitigates this, but scaling remains a challenge. Furthermore, international scrutiny of autonomous weapons may push Pakistan to clarify compliance with IHL. Nevertheless, Sarkash and Sarfarosh position Pakistan as a key player in unmanned warfare.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s Sarkash and Sarfarosh drones mark a bold step into autonomous warfare. By blending tactical and strategic capabilities, they redefine Pakistan’s military doctrine. Moreover, they challenge India’s regional dominance, intensifying the drone arms race. As South Asia navigates this new era, Pakistan’s focus on scalable, indigenous systems ensures strategic flexibility. The age of “everywhere drones” has begun, reshaping the region’s security landscape.
