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NESCOM Burraq

2015 MODERN AIRCRAFT DRONE TECHNOLOGY

History

When it became clear to Pakistani authorities that U.S. Predator drones would not be able to pass state-to-state sales and that Chinese offerings failed to meet expected battlefield capabilities, local industries partnered with the Pakistan Air Force to deliver their first indigenous aircraft Combat Air Vehicle (UCAV) in the UAV NESCOM "Burraq".

Development began around 2009, with its maiden flight on May 9 of that year. Produced shortly after, the Burraq has been used against militants in the northwestern country. A completed form was submitted in a presentation in 2015.

The success of the U.S. Predator armed system in northwest Pakistan prompted the Pakistani government to inquire about procuring a proven platform. However, the U.S. government has rejected proposals to force research into Chinese alternatives, citing technical issues. Upon review, it was found that these did not possess the capabilities needed by the Pakistani military, prompting the National Engineering and Science Council (NESCOM) to assist the Pakistani Air Force in developing a local solution - aimed at exploiting the advantages of US predators using the familiar Chinese CH-3 "Rainbow" series.

The resulting design became the Burraq - named after the Pegasus that brought Muhammad from Mecca to Jerusalem.

In its original form, the burraq has no armed capabilities and is used only in an Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) role to gather data on possible targets. Over time, the product's tactical value and capability on the battlefield has grown, making it an armed role.

Since its inception, the burraq has been used in operations against suspected militants to further distance the country from its reliance on U.S. drone strikes on Pakistani territory and the purchase of Chinese war materiel.

Burraq reportedly carried a "Barq" laser-guided air-to-surface missile (with a mission range similar to the US "Hellfire") when deployed. A conventional engine for propulsion is provided, driving a three-bladed propeller arranged in a "thrust" configuration.

Fixed tricycle landing gear with wheels is provided for takeoff and landing on prepared runways. The streamlined, aerodynamically efficient airframe houses the engines, fuel storage and avionics. The optical group is presented in the ventral bubble near the midship.

Burraq marks Pakistan's first indigenous UCAV.