Pakistan’s Long-Range Ballistic Missile Program: America’s Concern
A senior official from the U.S. President’s office recently stated that Pakistan is developing a long-range ballistic missile with a range that could reach beyond South Asia, potentially even to the United States. U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer expressed concerns about Pakistan’s missile program, questioning its true objective. He stated that Pakistan’s missile development raises critical questions about its intentions. Previously, the U.S. had imposed sanctions on four companies related to Pakistan’s missile program.
This U.S. action highlights that Pakistan’s missile program is not only a regional security issue but could also have global implications. It also adds complexity to the growing military competition between Pakistan and India.
Nuclear Weapons of Pakistan and India
The nuclear arms race between Pakistan and India has been intensifying. According to the SIPRI (Stockholm International Peace Research Institute) report from June 2024, India possesses 172 nuclear warheads, while Pakistan has 170. Meanwhile, China is reported to have around 500 nuclear warheads. SIPRI’s YEARBOOK 2024 also mentions that nuclear-armed countries are modernizing their arsenals, and this is having a direct impact on South Asia’s security dynamics.
The report suggests that the nuclear weapons competition between India and Pakistan is heating up, especially as Pakistan expands its nuclear arsenal to counter India. On the other hand, India is focusing on the deployment of long-range weapons that could potentially target not just Pakistan, but also China.
Missile and Drone Capabilities of India and Pakistan
Both India and Pakistan have been making significant advancements in missile and drone technologies. India has a wide array of missiles, including the Prithvi series (1, 2, 3), the Agni series (1, 2, 3, 4, 5), BrahMos, Dhanush, and K-series missiles. Some of these are operational, while others are still undergoing tests. These missiles have various capabilities, such as surface-to-surface, air-to-air, and long-range strike potential, greatly enhancing India’s strategic military capabilities.
In comparison, Pakistan has missiles like the Hatf series (1, 2, 3), Shaheen series (1, 1A, 2), Ghauri series (1, 2), which are part of its growing arsenal aimed at countering India’s military power.
India’s Drone Program: Collaboration from the U.S. to Israel
India has been expanding its drone capabilities through partnerships with the U.S. and Israel. In October 2024, India signed a deal to purchase 31 Predator drones from the U.S. for $3.5 billion. These drones are equipped with surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike capabilities. The cost of one drone in Indian currency is approximately ₹950 crores, indicating the significant investment in this technology.
Additionally, India has developed indigenous drones with the help of research institutions such as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Some of India’s homegrown drones include Heron Mark-1, Heron Mark-2, Rustom, Heron UAV, Harpy, Drishti-10, and Searcher Mark-11. The DRDO also developed drones like Nishant and Gagan that offer high-resolution 3D imaging capabilities. The Rustom-2 drone, which has the ability to land autonomously, is another example of India’s focus on improving its surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. India has primarily imported drones from Israel, starting in 1998, and has continued to strengthen its drone technology with collaborations from countries like Russia and Israel.
Pakistan’s Drones: Advanced Equipment from Turkey and China
Pakistan, too, is strengthening its drone capabilities, importing advanced drones from Turkey, China, Germany, and Italy. Among these are Turkey’s Bayraktar TB2 and Akıncı drones, and China’s Wing Loong II and CH4 drones. Pakistan also developed its flagship drone, the Shaheen-2, in 2022, which boasts advanced surveillance and strike capabilities. These drones have become crucial for Pakistan in enhancing its military surveillance and counteroffensive operations.
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Missile and Drone Power: India vs. Pakistan
India and Pakistan have both made substantial progress in their military programs, including missiles, drones, and nuclear weapons. India’s focus is on long-range missiles and high-tech drones, while Pakistan is rapidly modernizing its missile and drone technology to maintain a strategic balance with its neighbor.
India’s missile program includes a range of advanced technologies like surface-to-surface, air-to-air, and long-range missiles, some of which are operational, while others are still undergoing trials. Pakistan, on the other hand, has developed a variety of missiles with similar capabilities, enhancing its defense potential.
Both countries are increasing their drone capacities, with India focusing on sophisticated surveillance and reconnaissance, and Pakistan using a combination of imports and indigenous technology to strengthen its military capabilities.
The Race for Military Dominance: India and Pakistan’s Growing Security Threats
Both India and Pakistan are rapidly expanding their military capabilities, including long-range missiles, nuclear arsenals, and advanced drone technology. The ongoing arms race between the two countries is likely to escalate, especially as both nations continue to modernize their defense systems.
India’s emphasis on deploying long-range weapons capable of targeting countries like China reflects its broader strategic objectives, while Pakistan’s focus on enhancing its missile and drone power underscores its intent to maintain a balance of power in the region. This competition is reshaping South Asia’s security dynamics and is a source of concern for global stability.
In conclusion, the growing military rivalry between India and Pakistan, fueled by the development of advanced missiles, drones, and nuclear weapons, poses significant regional and global security challenges. As both nations continue to modernize their arsenals, the risk of heightened tensions and potential conflict in the region remains a pressing concern.
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