In the evolving matrix of modern warfare, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) is fortifying its capabilities through an advanced collaboration with Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), with plans to transform a Bombardier Global 6000 into a sophisticated stand-off jamming (SOJ) aircraft. This strategic move is a calibrated response to India’s military modernization, which includes the induction of French Rafales and indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas MK1A into the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Initially repurposed for VIP transport duties, the Global 6000’s conversion into an electronic warfare platform is Pakistan’s bid to close the tactical gaps exposed during the 2019 Operation Swift Retort, conducted in response to India’s cross-border Balakot strikes. The operation demonstrated a pressing need for enhanced electronic warfare (EW) capabilities to counter the IAF’s bolstered air and surface-based threats, including the Russian S-400 ‘Growler’ air defense system.
Learning from the Balakot episode, which underscored the inadequacy of relying solely on nuclear deterrence, Pakistan is now investing in conventional military might, a shift that has become imperative despite economic challenges. The PAF’s modernization endeavors are informed by past experiences, the ongoing international conflicts, and the burgeoning availability of cutting-edge military technology from key allies like China and Turkey.
A significant feature of the proposed SOJ aircraft is the Aselsan HAVASOJ suite utilized by Turkey, which equips the Turkish Air Force’s Global 6000s. The Aselsan HAVASOJ is a comprehensive EW system designed for radar jamming, communications jamming, and electronic intelligence (ELINT). It employs transceivers that disrupt enemy radar transmissions using digital radar frequency memory (DRFM) systems and creates a ‘threat library’ from monitored communications, facilitating electronic countermeasures.
While the PAF’s exact specifications for the EW suite have not been publicly finalized, it is speculated that they may seek a customized version of the HAVASOJ tailored to prioritize radar jamming, considering the complementary capabilities of other aircraft and land-based EW systems within Pakistan’s arsenal.
Relevant articles:
– Pakistan-Turkey Team Up Against India – Ankara To Help Convert PAF’s Bombardier Global 6000 Into A Jamming Aircraft , EurAsian Times, 05/03/2024
– South Korea Considers Joining AUKUS Pillar II, The Diplomat, 05/02/2024
– PAF Collaborates With Turkey to Convert Bombardier Global 6000 into SOJ Aircraft, ProPakistani, 05/02/2024