Pakistan has unveiled a new long-range drone called the D-248, marking another major development in the country’s growing unmanned aerial technology sector.
The drone was showcased by Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT) at the Indus Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS) Expo 2026. According to specifications presented by HIT, the D-248 has an operational range of 2,200 to 3,000 kilometres, making it one of Pakistan’s longest-range publicly displayed unmanned strike systems.
The D-248 features a tailless delta-wing design and has a maximum take-off weight of around 240 kilograms. Reports based on the displayed specifications say it can carry a 30–50 kilogram payload and reach a maximum speed of approximately 225 kilometres per hour, while its cruising speed is around 185 km/h.
The system is described as a long-range loitering munition, meaning it is designed to travel toward a designated area and engage a target. Reports say the drone can remain airborne for approximately 12 to 14 hours, although detailed information about its navigation, guidance technology and production status has not been publicly disclosed.
The unveiling comes as Pakistan continues to expand its domestic drone industry. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently highlighted significant progress in locally produced drone technology, saying around 60 percent of the country’s drone requirements were now being manufactured domestically.
The D-248 represents Pakistan’s push toward longer-range and increasingly autonomous unmanned systems, potentially strengthening the country’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.
However, the 3,000-kilometre figure is a manufacturer-reported specification, and independent verification of the drone’s operational performance has not yet been publicly established.
