As tensions escalate between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, Turkey has expressed its support for Islamabad through the delivery of combat equipment. On Sunday, a Turkish Air Force C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft landed in Karachi, bringing the equipment as part of broader defence collaboration between the two nations.
In addition to Karachi, six Turkish C-130 aircraft have reportedly reached a military base in Islamabad, further underscoring Turkey’s commitment to assisting Pakistan in addressing challenges at its international borders. While both Turkish and Pakistani sources confirmed the transfer of military cargo, the specifics of the shipment remain undisclosed.
Turkey’s backing comes at a critical time of growing instability in the region, marked by the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack and the ongoing India-Pakistan dispute over Kashmir. This military assistance complements similar aid from China, which has allegedly supplied drones to bolster Pakistan’s defence capabilities.
This cooperation highlights strengthening defence ties among Turkey, Pakistan, and China, as their alliances begin to influence South Asia’s geopolitical landscape amidst heightened military activity. For Pakistan, these deliveries represent crucial reinforcements in the face of mounting threats along its borders.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has activated key bases such as Pensi, Skardu, and Swat in response to the rising regional tensions. Deployed fighter jets, including F-16s, J-10s, and JF-17s, are conducting combat air patrols (CAPs) to ensure readiness. Notably, the Skardu airbase has undergone upgrades to serve as a central hub for air defence, surveillance, and combat operations.
