IAF Modernization: Issues and Options for Pakistan

Abstract

When India gets its 36 Rafales, it will have a combination of technologically advanced Rafale, a capable and large fleet of Su-30MKI, and a good number of locally developed HAL Tejas in the future. Along with the procurement of other major weapon systems, India may then feel comfortable with the idea of another Balakot type event where it tries to project its military muscle and score a point after its failure to respond effectively against Pakistan after the Rajouri strikes. Pakistan’s response strategy therefore would become complex not only to take into account the numerical and technological strength of the Indian air-force but also Indian leadership’s perception regarding the capabilities of major weapon systems and the belligerent posture of its leadership towards Pakistan.