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

Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry has expressed confidence in Pakistan's operational readiness for drone warfare, stating that the country is "much ahead" compared to the Afghan Taliban and India. During a wide-ranging interview with Reuters, he emphasized that Pakistan's military is adapting to the changing nature of warfare, including non-contact and contact warfare, cyber, and drone operations.

The DG ISPR acknowledged that the Afghan Taliban lacked independent military capabilities, attributing any drone capabilities to external sponsors, primarily India, whom he labeled as the "biggest terror sponsor". He noted that Pakistan had previously engaged in shooting down dozens of sophisticated drones during the 2025 conflict with India.

Lt Gen Chaudhry also highlighted that Pakistan's military was leveraging emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and cyber capabilities, to address the threat posed by non-state actors like the Taliban, Khawarij, and Houthis. He stressed that Pakistan is a "technology-savvy army" and urged Afghanistan to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries and stop harboring terrorist leaders.

The DG ISPR firmly rejected allegations of Pakistan coordinating with anti-Taliban elements, dismissing such claims as attempts to play the victim card. He further criticized the Afghan Taliban for aligning with multiple terrorist organizations, including East Turkestan Islamic Movement, Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, Jaish al-Adl, Al Qaeda, and Islamic State Khorasan Province.

The military spokesperson emphasized the importance of engaging with Afghanistan rather than isolating it, as the country's primary concerns are terrorism and drug production.