A Comparison of Pakistan and India’s Military Strength and Commitment

Despite its significantly larger defense expenditure, India’s military often struggles with outdated equipment, sluggish procurement processes, and an overly bureaucratic acquisition system. Many Indian Army units still rely on Soviet-era tanks and artillery, while modernization projects frequently face prolonged delays. In contrast, Pakistan has made notable strides in updating its missile systems, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and command-and-control infrastructure.

By comparison, the Indian Army faces ongoing morale challenges. Reports of high suicide rates, internal dissent, dissatisfaction with pay and conditions, and unresolved grievances are widespread. Moreover, divisions based on caste and religion continue to undermine unit cohesion, weakening long-term operational readiness and troop morale.

In the realm of air power—a defining factor in modern warfare—South Asia is dominated by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and the Indian Air Force (IAF). While the IAF enjoys greater size and budgetary resources, the PAF frequently excels in key performance areas such as pilot training, operational readiness, combat effectiveness, and strategic flexibility.

The underlying difference lies in doctrine and organizational philosophy. The Pakistan Air Force is built as a lean, highly agile, combat-focused force, structured to respond rapidly to any threat—particularly from the east. This has instilled a continuous state of operational readiness across all levels of the PAF. Conversely, the IAF operates within a broader bureaucratic framework, often slowed by political considerations, logistical challenges, and limited joint-force integration. Issues such as interoperability and command structure inefficiencies have hampered its overall effectiveness.

Although India boasts a larger and more diverse fleet—including Rafale jets, Su-30MKIs, and the indigenous Tejas—the advantages of this arsenal are frequently undermined by procurement delays, maintenance backlogs, and poor serviceability. For example, the Su-30MKI, a backbone of the IAF, has faced persistent issues with upkeep and availability.

In contrast, the PAF emphasizes quality and cost-effectiveness. Its investment in the JF-17 Thunder program, developed in collaboration with China, has produced a lightweight, multi-role fighter that is affordable, easy to maintain, and combat-ready. The latest JF-17 Block III variant features advanced capabilities such as Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, electronic warfare systems, and beyond-visual-range (BVR) missiles—placing it on par with many 4.5-generation fighters.

Additionally, Pakistan’s integration of the F-16 Fighting Falcon—a globally respected multirole aircraft—has significantly strengthened its aerial capabilities. The F-16 has consistently demonstrated its value in both simulated and real-world combat, including the 2019 skirmish. In contrast, India’s indigenous Tejas program has been hampered by delays, budget overruns, and persistent performance issues. Despite taking over three decades to reach full operational status, the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas still faces limited deployment due to ongoing technical refinements.

Pakistan’s collaborative approach to military development, particularly through its partnership with China, has proven far more efficient. By aligning defense objectives with economic feasibility, the PAF has modernized swiftly without overextending national resources. Its procurement strategy remains focused on operational needs rather than political optics.

Central to Pakistan’s naval doctrine is the concept of “minimum credible deterrence,” which seeks to establish strategic parity without fueling an arms race. The PN emphasizes asymmetric warfare capabilities—such as stealth operations, submarine-based deterrence, and missile systems—to counterbalance India’s numerical superiority. On the other hand, the Indian Navy pursues a blue-water strategy with ambitions of global maritime presence and force projection beyond the Indian Ocean. While this vision appears impressive, it often overextends the force, diverting attention from immediate regional challenges—particularly along India’s western seaboard—where Pakistan maintains a concentrated and purpose-driven presence.

India’s fleet comprises over 150 vessels, including aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates, submarines, and amphibious assault ships. However, a large fleet does not inherently guarantee combat effectiveness. The Pakistan Navy, though smaller with approximately 50–60 active ships, has consistently focused on acquiring advanced, mission-specific platforms. It operates modern Chinese-built Type 054A/P frigates and Agosta-90B submarines, and is in the process of acquiring the Hangor-class submarines—all outfitted with sophisticated sonar systems, low observability features, and precision missile capabilities. These assets are well-suited for stealth operations, anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) missions, and robust coastal defense.

In contrast, India’s naval procurement has sometimes lacked coherence, with delays in shipbuilding projects and complications in integrating new technologies. The INS Vikramaditya aircraft carrier has faced recurrent maintenance and operational issues, while India’s indigenous submarine program has experienced significant setbacks. Pakistan, by comparison, has pursued a leaner and more agile approach, investing in technologically advanced yet cost-effective platforms. This strategy has enabled quicker deployment cycles and a more combat-ready fleet.

Across all branches—the Pakistan Army (PA), Pakistan Navy (PN), and Pakistan Air Force (PAF)—the Pakistani military has consistently demonstrated tactical proficiency and operational superiority during various conflicts and engagements with India. One of the most defining moments in South Asian military history took place during the Battle of Chawinda in the 1965 Indo-Pak War. As part of Operation Grand Slam, Indian forces aimed to breach Pakistani defenses and seize Sialkot, with the strategic objective of severing key communication links between Lahore and northern Pakistan. India deployed its 1st Armoured Division, along with supporting infantry brigades, in what became one of the largest tank engagements since the Second World War. The Pakistan Army, under the leadership of General Tajammul Hussain Malik and supported by the 6th Armoured Division and the 25th Cavalry Regiment, known as the “Men of Steel,” heroically repelled the Indian advance. Despite being outnumbered and facing inferior equipment, the Pakistani forces held firm and launched successful counterattacks, ultimately forcing the Indian Army to retreat. This battle became a key psychological and strategic victory for Pakistan, symbolizing national resilience and military excellence.

In the 1965 War, the Pakistan Air Force dealt a devastating blow to the Indian Air Force. Despite being outnumbered nearly 3:1, the PAF achieved air superiority in multiple sectors. Legendary pilots like M. M. Alam made history, famously downing five Indian aircraft in under a minute while flying the F-86 Sabre. The PAF destroyed more than 60 Indian aircraft, while losing fewer than 20, delivering a resounding imbalance in favor of Pakistan. This performance was acknowledged by impartial observers, with numerous foreign analysts recognizing the PAF’s superior training, tactics, and execution. A more recent and highly visible example of PAF’s dominance occurred during the 2019 Balakot crisis. Following a controversial airstrike by the Indian Air Force near Balakot, within Pakistani territory, Pakistan launched Operation Swift Retort on February 27, 2019, in response. The Pakistan Air Force carried out a precise retaliatory strike, targeting unoccupied Indian military positions to demonstrate strength while avoiding escalation. During the subsequent air battle, PAF pilots successfully shot down an Indian MiG-21 Bison and captured its pilot, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman. The Indian Air Force’s claim of downing a Pakistani F-16 was widely debunked by impartial analysts, including U.S. officials. The PAF’s actions demonstrated superior tactical planning, dominance in electronic warfare, and discipline in adhering to rules of engagement, resulting in a significant psychological and strategic victory. During Operation Swift Retort in 2019, Pakistani pilots effectively jammed Indian radar and communication systems, creating confusion within the Indian Air Force. This showcased the PAF’s advanced electronic warfare capabilities, catching the IAF off-guard despite its larger fleet and higher budget. Historically and in modern contexts, Pakistan’s armed forces have consistently exceeded expectations, often defeating or outmaneuvering their Indian counterparts in critical tactical and strategic situations. Whether through the Pakistan Army’s battlefield resilience, the Navy’s audacious submarine operations, or the PAF’s unparalleled aerial precision, Pakistan’s military successes demonstrate that skill, strategy, and courage can overcome sheer numbers. Each of these instances—Chawinda, Hangor, and Swift Retort—represents more than just military victories; they embody a national doctrine of resilience, strategic focus, and operational excellence. While diplomatic efforts and peace are the ideal resolutions, Pakistan’s defense history serves as a reminder that deterrence and preparedness are essential. Pakistan, while striving for peace and coexistence, has always remained steadfast in defending its sovereignty, whereas India has increasingly adopted a more aggressive regional and military stance.

Pakistan takes great pride in the performance of its military, which has consistently outperformed the Indian Army on various fronts. General Syed Asim Munir, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff since November 2022, has made clear the military’s unwavering commitment to defending the nation against any form of aggression. His statements reflect a resolute determination to safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national interests.

The Pakistani nation firmly believes that its defense is in safe hands, with the Pakistan Army fully committed to protecting every inch of the country in the event of aggression. The Pakistan Army has successfully reassured the nation that its security is in capable hands. The people of Pakistan stand united with the Army and take pride in having such dedicated defenders of the homeland. India should learn from history and avoid any form of aggression.