CDF Munir, US-based POWERUS discuss defence technology, cooperation

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Chief of Defence Forces Munir and US-based defence company POWERUS discussed advancing defence technology cooperation and procurement. This meeting emphasized innovation to enhance national security and included a prior $686 million technology upgrade deal for Pakistan's F-16 fighters.

Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir on Wednesday discussed evolving trends in defence technology and potential areas of cooperation with United States-based defence and critical infrastructure company POWERUS, the military’s media wing said. The meeting focused on opportunities for collaboration in defence procurement, production and capacity building, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The POWERUS delegation was led by Robert Bret Velicovich. During the meeting, CDF Munir also highlighted the “importance of technological innovation and advanced solutions in strengthening national security and resilience.” The company, according to its website, “builds hardware and unified systems architecture that keep critical assets running in high-consequence environments.” Both sides expressed interest in further developing engagement in areas of mutual interest, added ISPR. In January, US and Pakistan army soldiers completed training at the National Counter-Terrorism Center during Exercise Inspired Gambit, which focused on combined infantry skills and tactics, and counterterrorism operations. In December last year, the US approved the sale of advanced technology and upgrade packages for Pakistan’s F-16 fighter aircraft, a deal valued at approximately $686 million.