India Must Sustain Military Edge Amid Pakistan’s Growing Capabilities

India retains a military advantage over Pakistan, but experts say sustaining this edge will need self‑reliance, continuous modernization and vigilance against internal threats. Hindustan Times Executive Editor Shishir Gupta warned that Pakistan could receive its first Chinese J‑20 fifth‑generation fighters as early as 2027, with pilots already training in China. He also highlighted Pakistan’s interest in PL‑16 and PL‑17 missiles, HQ‑9B air‑defence systems, and new submarines, all of which could deepen the challenge for Indian planners. Gupta urged India to strengthen its own long‑range air‑to‑air missiles, such as the Russian RVV‑BD and indigenous Astra series, and to bolster counter‑intelligence and information‑warfare capabilities to match Pakistan’s expanding military and diplomatic reach.