'We're a tech-savvy army': DG ISPR voices confidence in Pakistan's operational readiness for drone warfare

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, expressed confidence in Pakistan's operational readiness in drone warfare, stating that the country is much ahead of the Afghan Taliban and India. This confidence was shared during an interview with Reuters, where Chaudhry discussed the ongoing tensions between Pakistan and Kabul.

When queried about the Afghan Taliban's drone capabilities, Chaudhry said, "It’s a narrow thing that I’ll be worried about the drones being used by Afghanistan." He emphasized that the Afghan Taliban lacks military capabilities of their own, being a proxy of India, which he characterized as the biggest terror sponsor. Chaudhry recalled that during a conflict with India in May 2025, Pakistan had destroyed dozens of sophisticated drones launched from the eastern border, asserting that the Pakistani army is adapting to changing warfare methods, including drones and long-range missions.

He affirmed that Pakistan is a technology-savvy army, utilizing AI, quantum technology, and cyber technology among other advancements. Pakistan has consistently urged the Taliban to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries, but their efforts have been ignored. The Afghan Taliban has not explicitly condemned the use of terrorist groups like the TTP and BLA operating within Afghanistan.

Chaudhry dismissed allegations of Pakistan coordinating with anti-Taliban elements, stating, "That’s how you play the victim card." He noted that Afghanistan, unlike Pakistan, is still controlled by a non-state actor, having been subjected to foreign interventions for over 40 years. The military spokesperson further criticized the Taliban for their ambiguous stance and potential involvement in terrorism and drug trade, questioning why international organizations should take their word seriously.

Chaudhry rejected the notion of isolating Afghanistan, emphasizing that the international community should instead press for responsible behavior, stating that Afghanistan's main products are terrorism and drugs.