Turkey Denies Arms Transfer to Pakistan Amid Tensions

Turkey firmly denies sending weapons to Pakistan amid rising India-Pakistan tensions, stressing routine aircraft refueling.

Turkey Denies Weapons Transfer to Pakistan Amid India-Pakistan Tensions

By [Your Name] | April 29, 2025

As tensions flare across South Asia following a deadly terror attack in Kashmir, Turkey has found itself at the center of swirling speculation. Allegations surfaced online and in Indian media suggesting that Ankara had quietly delivered military hardware to Pakistan—a claim that Turkish officials swiftly and categorically denied.

The controversy was ignited by social media reports and some Indian news outlets which claimed that six Turkish C-130E Hercules aircraft landed in Pakistan, supposedly loaded with combat gear. However, the Turkish government was quick to refute these allegations, asserting that the aircraft made a routine stop for refueling before continuing its flight path.

“A cargo plane from Turkiye landed in Pakistan for refuelling. It then continued on its route. Speculative news made outside of statements of authorised persons and institutions should not be relied upon,” stated the Directorate of Communications, according to Turkish outlet Daily Sabah.

Flight tracking from open-source intelligence (OSINT) had shown the aircraft maneuvering over the Arabian Sea on April 28, which further fueled assumptions about a covert arms delivery. But Turkey’s response has been clear: the landing was procedural, not political.

Kashmir Attack Raises Regional Stakes

The timing of this controversy could not be more sensitive. A recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, claimed 26 lives, stoking fears of a potential military escalation between India and Pakistan. Historically, India has responded decisively to such provocations—most notably after the Uri (2016) and Pulwama (2019) attacks. Anticipating retaliation, Pakistan has reportedly repositioned military assets in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and activated key air bases at Pensi, Skardu, and Swat.

It is in this volatile context that the rumors of Turkish arms shipments gained momentum. While Ankara’s denial might put a lid on the latest uproar, the broader military relationship between Turkey and Pakistan invites deeper scrutiny.

A Deepening Turkey-Pakistan Military Alliance

Although Turkey denies any recent weapons shipment, its defense ties with Pakistan are longstanding and robust. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Pakistan received 10% of Turkey’s arms exports between 2020 and 2024. These exports reflect more than transactional exchanges—they represent a strategic alignment.

One of the most notable examples is the sale of Turkish Bayraktar TB2 and Akinci drones to Pakistan. The Akinci, a high-endurance, high-altitude UAV, was first delivered in 2023 and has since been integrated into Pakistan’s aerial defense systems.

Moreover, the two nations are jointly developing the KAAN fifth-generation stealth fighter. Earlier this year, discussions progressed toward establishing a joint production facility in Pakistan. Talks have even touched upon co-developing helicopters and advanced missile systems like the FAZ-2 and Gökdoğan.

Naval Power and Submarine Modernization

Their partnership isn’t limited to air power. Pakistan’s naval modernization has also been boosted by Turkish collaboration. Four MILGEM-class corvettes, designed by Turkey, have been added to Pakistan’s fleet—the most recent, PNS Tariq, was delivered in August 2023.

Turkey also played a pivotal role in upgrading Pakistan’s Agosta 90B submarines, enhancing their sonar and radar capabilities. Meanwhile, the fleet tanker PNS Moawin—co-designed by Turkey’s STM—was built in Karachi, symbolizing the depth of bilateral trust and technical integration.

Discussions are reportedly underway to explore joint submarine development, with whispers around nuclear-powered propulsion systems adding a layer of strategic significance.

Missile Tech and Munitions Exchange

In 2023, Pakistan reportedly acquired cutting-edge military munitions from Turkish firms, including anti-tank guided weapons from Roketsan and AI-enabled cruise missiles, known as Kemankeş, from Baykar. These technologies are said to be incorporated into Pakistan’s growing drone arsenal.

There is also mutual interest in developing short- and long-range air-to-air missile systems, signaling a broader ambition for regional defense autonomy.

Diplomacy Meets Defense

Beyond military transactions, Ankara has been an outspoken supporter of Islamabad on diplomatic fronts—especially regarding Kashmir. After a February 2025 meeting between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Erdoğan renewed calls for a UN-led resolution on Kashmir.

Just hours after the Pahalgam attack, Sharif publicly expressed gratitude to Turkey for its “unwavering support,” underscoring the depth of their strategic alignment.

A Shifting Security Balance in South Asia

While Turkey’s official denial may temper immediate concerns, it doesn’t alter the larger narrative: South Asia is becoming an increasingly complex and militarized region. With China also boosting Pakistan’s arsenal—most notably with PL-15 long-range air-to-air missiles—the India-Pakistan-Turkey-China triangle introduces a new layer of uncertainty.

At a time when even routine military movements trigger geopolitical shockwaves, the Turkey-Pakistan alliance remains one to watch.

Conclusion: Strategic Denials, Strategic Realities

Turkey’s rebuttal may close the chapter on this specific allegation, but the larger story remains—South Asia’s security landscape is evolving fast. As old alliances deepen and new ones emerge, routine acts like a refueling stop can become flashpoints in an already volatile environment. For policymakers and analysts alike, separating rumor from reality is no longer just a task—it’s a necessity.

Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available sources and official statements. It does not independently verify the aircraft’s cargo or its strategic intent. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple perspectives and remain cautious of misinformation in high-tension geopolitical scenarios.

source :The Economic Times