Against the backdrop of escalating tensions in Kashmir in May 2025, India and Pakistan once again found themselves on the brink of military conflict. After a terrorist attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people, India accused Pakistani militants of being responsible, which led to a sharp deterioration in relations between the two countries. Pakistan, in turn, rejected the accusations and conducted missile tests, demonstrating its readiness to take appropriate measures.
Let’s take a look at the military capabilities of these two countries.
India’s military capabilities
Troop strength: 1.45 million active military personnel, 1.15 million reservists, and over 2.5 million paramilitary personnel.
Ground forces: 3,740 main battle tanks (T-90 Bhishma, Arjun), 9,743 artillery units, including modern Pinaka and Dhanush systems.
Air force: approximately 2,229 aircraft, including 600 fighter jets (Rafale, Su-30MKI), 899 helicopters, and 831 support aircraft.
Navy: 75,500 personnel, 150 ships, including the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya and Arihant-class ballistic missile submarines.
Nuclear arsenal: approximately 170–200 warheads, a “no first strike” policy, delivery systems — Agni (I–V), Prithvi, BrahMos missiles, as well as sea and air platforms.
Technological achievements: development of hypersonic missiles (BM-04), laser air defense systems (IDD&IS Mk2A), integration of theater commands, and the Integrated Battle Groups concept for rapid mobilization.
Pakistan’s military potential
Number: approximately 700,000 active military personnel: 560,000 in the army, 70,000 in the air force, and 30,000 in the navy.
Army: 2,537 main battle tanks (T-80, Al-Khalid), 4,619 artillery pieces.
Air Force: approximately 1,387 aircraft, including JF-17 Thunder and F-16 fighter jets, as well as Chinese drones.
Navy: 30,000 personnel, 9 frigates, 5 submarines, including new Chinese S20s.
Nuclear arsenal: approximately 170–190 warheads, a “first strike” doctrine with an emphasis on tactical nuclear weapons, including Nasr (Hatf-9) missiles with a range of up to 70 km.
Technological achievements: joint programs with China for the production of fighter jets, modernization of air defense, development of missile technologies.
The situation remains tense:
Pakistan has conducted two missile tests, including the launch of a Fatah missile with a range of 120 km.
India has stepped up security measures and conducted exercises in several states.
Both countries have closed their airspace and suspended trade.
International actors are calling for de-escalation.
Experts warn that even a limited conflict could escalate into a nuclear confrontation, given the doctrines of the parties and historical experience.
