Pakistan's growing military strength is becoming a strategic challenge for India

Pakistan's military buildup efforts are akin to a major strategic test for India. Hindustan Times Executive Editor Shishir Gupta has stated that the challenges coming from Islamabad have not diminished due to Operation Sindoor. India is currently in a situation where it has to face an enemy that is investing in its military capabilities while simultaneously strengthening relations with powerful international partners.

In a conversation with senior anchor Ayesha Varma on Hindustan Times' program 'Point Blank', Gupta clarified that this competition is not limited merely to fighter jets, missiles, or submarines. This competition also includes aspects such as diplomatic negotiations, intelligence operations, and information warfare. Although India holds a military advantage, it will need to focus more on self-reliance, continuous modernisation, and internal risks to maintain this edge.

Citing intelligence inputs, Gupta stated that Pakistan could acquire fifth-generation fighter jets from China. It is possible that Pakistan might receive its first J-20 fighters by January or February 2027, though this timeline may change. He also noted that Pakistani pilots are currently undergoing training in China. If Pakistan acquires more capable aircraft and long-range air-to-air missiles, its aerial capability will increase significantly.

In addition to PL-15 missiles, Pakistan is also interested in acquiring long-range missiles such as PL-16 and PL-17. According to Gupta, improvements in both launch platforms and weaponry will increase the challenge for Indian planners. Despite questions being raised about the limitations of China's WS-15 engine, the fact that Pakistan could acquire fifth-generation fighter jets cannot be ignored.

Gupta stated that this military expansion is taking place under the leadership of Pakistan's Field Marshal Asim Munir. He described Pakistan as a 'quasi-military state', where military leadership can prioritise defence procurement despite financial constraints. Pakistan is acquiring HQ-9B air-defence systems from China, eight Yuan-class or Hangor-class submarines, long-range missiles, as well as armed drones and unmanned combat systems from China and Turkey.

During Operation Sindoor, India damaged 11 of Pakistan's air bases and several air-defence installations, yet Gupta denied that this has permanently reduced Pakistan's threat. Despite economic distress, Pakistan is arming itself in this manner because it is making various powers useful to its cause. China is its closest strategic partner, providing weapons and surveillance support. Alongside this, Pakistan is also maintaining relations with the USA, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Iran to gain resources and diplomatic influence.