By Emmanuel Nduka
Decade’s old hostilities were renewed early Wednesday, after India conducted deadly air strikes into Pakistan, in a sharp escalation of the Kashmir conflict.
The Pakistani military told the CNN that at least 26 civilians were killed, in India’s military operation codenamed ‘Operation Sindoor’.
Heritage Times HT had reported that New Delhi launched airstrikes deep into Pakistani territory early Wednesday, hitting what it described as “terrorist infrastructure” in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Punjab province, in what has become the most serious escalation between the nuclear-armed rivals since the 1999 Kargil conflict.
Analysts are already expressing that if this new war drags on, it will add to the burden of influential world leaders who are already overwhelmed with peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, and Israel and parts of the Middle East.
What Sparked This New War?
The renewed war between both countries comes after a devastating tourist massacre in Kashmir. Gunmen had reportedly killed more than two dozen civilians, mostly tourists, in the Indian-controlled Kashmir region in April. India had accused Pakistan of carrying out the onslaught. Pakistan denied any involvement.
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But this is not the first time both countries would be going hard on each other. Since the segregation of British India in 1947, and subsequent creation of the dominion of India and Pakistan, both countries have been involved in a number of fighting and military standoffs. The resurging long-standing dispute over Kashmir and cross-border terrorism have been the predominant cause of conflict between both countries.
The first India-Pakistani war ran from 1947 to 1948. Another broke out in 1965, and then later again in 1971. After the surrender of about 90,000 Pakistani troops to Indian Forces in early 1972, a Pakistani Author wrote that, “Pakistan lost half its navy, a quarter of its air force and a third of its army”. The most recent before 2025, was the Kargil war in 1999.
In all these fighting, Pakistan has always suffered heavy casualties, with Indian Forces gaining the upper hand. The USA and Russia (former Soviet Union) had always stepped in to broker peace.
A Look At Military Capabilities of Both Countries
India and Pakistan remain two of the most significant military powers in South Asia. Both nations possess formidable defense capabilities, driven by distinct strategies, economic resources, and strategic imperatives.
While the rivalry between both countries has historically been shaped by territorial disputes and regional tensions, a closer look at their military strengths reveals a picture of two nations preparing for an uncertain future.
HT Exclusive compares the military capabilities of these two South Asian giants in 2025, according to statistics from Global Firepower (GFP) Index 2025.
India’s Military Strength In 2025
India’s military is defined by its vast manpower, advanced technological assets, and growing defense infrastructure. The country ranks among the top global military powers, largely due to its strong economy and strategic geographical position.
With a defense budget of $75 billion and a purchasing power parity GDP of $13.1 trillion, India maintains a strong defense posture, enabling it to exert influence across the Indo-Pacific. The nation’s total labor force of 593 million further underlines its capacity to sustain large-scale military operations.
India’s population of over 1.41 billion provides a vast recruitment pool, with more than 5.1 million individuals currently serving in various branches of the military. This includes: 1.45 million active-duty personnel, 1.15 million reserve forces, and 2.53 million in paramilitary forces. Each year, around 24 million individuals reach military age, ensuring a continuous supply of potential service members for both regular duties and emergency mobilization.
In terms of airpower capabilities, India commands one of Asia’s most capable air forces, with a fleet totaling 2,229 aircraft, about 75% of which are mission-ready. This includes: 513 fighters, 130 attack aircraft, 270 transport aircraft, 351 trainers, 74 special mission aircraft, and 899 helicopters, among which 80 are designated for attack roles. The presence of advanced aircraft such as the Su-30MKI, Rafale, and indigenous Tejas jets further strengthens India’s air superiority in the region.
On the ground, India’s army is equipped to defend its extensive and often challenging borders. The country possesses 4,201 tanks and a staggering 148,594 armored vehicles. Its artillery assets include 100 self-propelled guns, 3,975 towed artillery pieces, and 264 multiple launch rocket systems, ensuring powerful fire support across various terrains.
On the coastline, India’s naval power reflects its ambitions of becoming a true blue-water navy, capable of projecting force. The Indian Navy operates two aircraft carriers, 13 destroyers, 14 frigates, 18 corvettes, 18 submarines, and 135 patrol vessels. Indigenous projects such as the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier and the Arihant-class nuclear submarines highlight the country’s commitment to expanding its maritime reach and securing the Indian Ocean region.
Pakistan’s Military Strength In 2025
In contrast, Pakistan’s military in 2025, though smaller in scale, remains a significant regional force.
It leverages strategic geography and a well-coordinated mix of land, air, and naval capabilities to ensure national security.
With a defense budget of $7.64 billion and a GDP (PPP) of $1.35 trillion, Pakistan operates under tighter financial constraints, but focuses on optimizing the efficiency and readiness of its forces.
Pakistan’s population exceeds 252 million, supporting a total military personnel strength of 1.7 million. This comprises 654,000 active-duty troops, 550,000 reservists, and 500,000 paramilitary members.
The nation has an annual recruitment potential of approximately 4.7 million, allowing it to replenish and expand its forces during extended conflicts.
The Pakistani air force plays a crucial role in the country’s defense strategy, maintaining an inventory of 1,399 aircraft. These include: 328 fighters, 90 attack aircraft, 64 transport planes, 565 trainers, and 373 helicopters, including 57 attack variants.
While not as technologically advanced as India’s air force, Pakistan still fields capable platforms such as the JF-17 Thunder and the F-16, which offer credible air defense and strike capabilities.
On land, the Pakistani Army possesses a strong mechanized and artillery force, with 2,627 tanks and 17,516 armored vehicles. Its firepower is further supported by 662 self-propelled artillery units, 2,629 towed guns, and 600 multiple launch rocket systems. These assets provide both defensive and offensive capabilities, particularly suited for conventional warfare and counterinsurgency operations.
Pakistan’s navy, though not designed for extensive blue-water operations, is effective in coastal defense and regional deterrence. It operates a fleet that includes nine frigates, nine corvettes, eight submarines, and 69 patrol vessels.
Despite lacking aircraft carriers and destroyers, the navy is equipped to conduct anti-submarine and coastal patrol missions efficiently.
While comparing the military strengths of India and Pakistan in 2025, it is instructive to note that both nations are prepared to confront similar regional threats, especially from one another.
India enjoys advantages in terms of a larger defense budget, more comprehensive manpower, and technologically superior air and naval forces. India’s air force’s diverse and modern fleet gives it a clear edge in aerial combat and support roles, while its growing naval presence extends its strategic reach throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
Conversely, Pakistan’s military strategy emphasizes defense and deterrence. With limited resources, it focuses on maintaining a balanced and responsive force, prioritizing effectiveness over scale. Its reliance on a robust mix of armored units, artillery, and aircraft supports its ability to defend territorial integrity and manage internal security challenges.
Also, both India and Pakistan face significant energy security concerns, as both nations are heavily reliant on imported energy resources. India is a major importer of oil, gas, and coal, while Pakistan also struggles with energy shortages.
Stable and sustainable energy supplies is crucial for sustaining military operations and overall defense readiness.
Credit: GFP Index 2025
