Chinese defense firms showcase high-end products at industry expo in Pakistan

Top Chinese defense firms are showcasing a wide range of high-end weapons and equipment covering all fields of land, sea, air, space, and electronics at the 12th International Defense Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS 2024) in Karachi, Pakistan's southern port city, demonstrating China's advanced capabilities in national defense technology.

The IDEAS 2024, running from Tuesday to Friday, has attracted over 560 defense equipment exhibitors from 41 countries and regions. Among them, 55 percent are international participants, while 45 percent are local exhibitors.

Chinese exhibitors, under the brand "China Defense," have put on display advanced weaponry, including the JF-17 fighter jet, Z-9EC and WE-10ME helicopters, multiple high-performance drones, VT4 main battle tank, SH-15 self-propelled howitzer, Type 054 frigate, as well as the Red Arrow 10E and Red Arrow 12E anti-tank missile systems.

These exhibits demonstrate China's advanced capabilities in information technology, intelligence, and systematization across all fields of land, sea, air, space, and electronics, attracting significant attention from numerous professional participants and media outlets.

"China perhaps has the biggest stall over here and that shows their commitment to Pakistan's defense industry. And the relationship between our two countries is historical and unparalleled. It will keep on increasing, it will achieve new heights," said Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif.

"As new technologies develop, our weapons and equipment are increasingly showing characteristics of systematization and unmanned operation. Through cooperation with friends worldwide, we have made significant achievements, contributing to peace in various regions and our world," said Zhu Longtao, a representative of the Chinese exhibitors.

The IDEAS, initiated in 2000, has evolved into a profoundly influential defense expo in Asia. This year's edition has exceeded all past records in exhibition space, registrations, exhibitors, and the count of domestic and international representatives.

The Pakistani side has stated that the IDEAS provides a regional platform for international arms manufacturers and suppliers to explore new defense cooperation channels through joint ventures, outsourcing, and partnerships.

Chinese defense firms showcase high-end products at industry expo in Pakistan

Chinese defense firms showcase high-end products at industry expo in Pakistan

The 2024 Los Angeles Auto Show, one of the largest car events in the United States, is in full swing, serving as a platform for major automakers to unveil their latest models and concept cars. This year's highlight is the industry's transition to electric vehicles (EVs).

Unveiling a new electric vehicle at the Los Angeles Auto Show is no longer a novelty. Manufacturers are now stepping up by introducing electric SUVs and trucks, reflecting the growing demand for versatile EV options.

"What we're understanding is that some of the biggest purchase decisions are made on range and charging. So, everybody wants to have a long-range battery. So, anything over 300 miles, it seems to be the sweet spot. That is when you start getting people to consider switching from a gas-powered car to an electric car," said Shad Balch, Director of Communications at Chevrolet.

Electric vehicles are the buzzword at this year's show, with automakers showcasing new models that promise better performance, longer ranges, and faster charging capabilities.

However, some experts have raised concerns about market saturation. In developed markets like California, many early adopters have already made the switch to EVs.

Despite the higher costs, government incentives continue to play a crucial role in making EVs more accessible.

"EVs are here to stay. They are the wave of the future. Electric vehicles are better for emissions. And the government is mandating that all manufacturers have to produce EVs," said Claudia Anderson, Product Specialist at Subaru.

California is leading the charge with a mandate requiring all new vehicles sold in the state to be zero-emission by 2035. This corresponds to the growing environmental consciousness among consumers, which experts believe is driving the increasing demand for EVs.

"I'm from California. And remember, growing up when we had "spare the air days" - that the air was too dirty to go play outside. So, California's made big strides in leading the way with environmental policy, and the vehicles are a nice complement to help achieve that solution," said Balch.

According to "Statista Market Insights," the U.S. EV market is projected to grow at an average annual rate of over 10 percent, with total unit sales expected to reach 2.3 million vehicles by 2029.

Los Angeles Auto Show 2024 highlights surge in EVs