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In the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which has drawn global attention to regional instability, the spotlight has returned to the longstanding military rivalry between India and Pakistan.
As tensions simmer, analysts are revisiting the comparative military strength of the two nuclear-armed neighbours. While both nations maintain formidable defense capabilities, their strategic outlooks, budgets, and technological advancements set them apart significantly. Here’s a detailed look at the military might of India and Pakistan in 2025.
Manpower and Size
India has one of the largest standing armed forces in the world with over 1.4 million active personnel. Pakistan, by comparison, maintains around 6.5 lakh active troops. While both nations rely on a mix of voluntary and conscripted forces, India’s numbers offer a significant numerical edge.
Defence Budget and Modernization
India's defence budget for 2024-25 stands at approximately $74 billion, making it the third-highest in the world. Pakistan’s defence allocation, in contrast, is around $11 billion. This disparity allows India to invest heavily on modernisation, indigenous production under the 'Make in India' initiative, and procurement of advanced systems such as Rafale jets, S-400 air defense systems, and nuclear submarines.
Air Power
India’s Air Force boasts over 2,000 aircraft, including advanced multi-role fighters like the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and Rafale. Pakistan's Air Force, with around 900 aircraft, relies heavily on F-16s and the JF-17 Thunder, jointly developed with China. While Pakistan has focused on cost-effective modernisation, India maintains a technological edge in terms of range, payload, and diversity of platforms.
Naval Power
India’s Navy is significantly larger, with an aircraft carrier (INS Vikramaditya and the indigenous INS Vikrant), nuclear-powered submarines, and a growing fleet of destroyers and frigates. Pakistan's navy is smaller and more coastal in nature, with a focus on submarines and missile boats for deterrence.
Nuclear Arsenal
Both countries are declared nuclear powers. India follows a 'No First Use' policy and has a well-established triad capability—land, air, and sea-based nuclear delivery systems. Pakistan has not committed to a no-first-use stance and focuses on tactical nuclear weapons as part of its deterrent strategy.
While both India and Pakistan maintain relatively strong defence capabilities, India’s superior economic strength, larger force size, advanced technology, and global strategic partnerships provide it with a decisive edge in conventional and strategic warfare.
