In May 2025, Pakistan’s military initiated Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, a significant cross-border offensive against Indian military targets. A notable feature of this operation was the deployment of the YIHA-III kamikaze drones, a product of joint development between Pakistan’s defense sector and Turkey’s Baykar Technologies.
Overview of YIHA-III Drones
The YIHA-III is a loitering munition designed for precision strikes against high-value targets such as radar stations, air defense systems, and command centers. With a range of approximately 100 kilometers and an endurance of 100 to 120 minutes, these drones are equipped with high-explosive payloads and advanced guidance systems. They are capable of operating in swarming tactics, overwhelming enemy defenses through coordinated attacks.
Operational Deployment
During Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, Pakistan launched between 300 to 400 YIHA-III drones targeting various Indian military installations, including air bases and missile storage facilities. The operation aimed to neutralize critical infrastructure and disrupt India’s military readiness. However, Indian defense systems successfully intercepted a significant number of these drones, preventing substantial damage .
Challenges and Criticisms
Read Top Stories
Despite the advanced capabilities of the YIHA-III drones, their performance during the operation faced scrutiny. Reports indicated that several drones malfunctioned or were downed before reaching their targets, raising questions about their reliability in high-intensity combat scenarios . This has prompted calls for further investigation into the drone’s performance and potential improvements in future deployments.
Strategic Implications
The use of YIHA-III drones highlights the growing role of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in modern warfare, particularly in asymmetric conflicts. While these drones offer cost-effective means to conduct precision strikes, their vulnerability to advanced air defense systems underscores the need for continuous technological advancements and tactical adaptations.