The US Defense Agency’s 2025 report emphasizes India’s strategy to counter China while regarding Pakistan as a less significant threat. The report explains that India views China as a primary adversary, labeling Pakistan as more of a secondary security concern.
According to the report, Pakistan perceives India as an “existential threat,” while India considers China’s influence far more pressing. The implications of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s defense policies are expected to focus on enhancing military capabilities and establishing India as a leader on the global stage. It’s suggested that India aims to manage its relationship with Pakistan, particularly in light of recent border conflicts related to cross-border military strikes.
The report highlights a series of events, citing that following terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, India executed missile strikes against what they deemed terrorist infrastructure within Pakistan and in Kashmir. This military action has intensified as India seeks to bolster its defense collaborations in the Indian Ocean region to mitigate China’s dominance and assert its leadership role globally.
While the report touches on the longstanding border tensions between India and China, it points out that the recent de-escalation hasn’t entirely resolved disputes that persist from their 2020 confrontations. India’s “Make in India” initiative is mentioned as a crucial part of its strategy, aimed at developing a domestic arms industry and bolstering military modernization.
On the subject of India’s relationship with Russia, the report indicates that ties are likely to continue until 2025, reflecting on how these relations are significant for India’s defense and economic aspirations. Although there has been a decline in the procurement of Russian military goods under Modi, India still relies on Russian parts for many military assets that are essential for countering threats from both China and Pakistan.
Regarding Pakistan, the report states that its military focuses on regional conflicts, particularly with rising terrorist activities attributed to groups like Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan. It estimates that over 2,500 people have been killed by extremists in Pakistan within the past year, indicating a persistent security challenge.
Pakistan is determined to continue its military modernization, especially in developing battlefield nuclear capabilities to balance against India’s military strengths. The report claims Pakistan is acquiring materials for its nuclear program from various global sources, largely facilitated by China.
Pakistan’s military collaboration with China is highlighted, detailing joint exercises and technology exchanges that bolster its defense capabilities. However, the report notes concerns over terrorist attacks targeting Chinese workers, reflecting broader regional tensions.
The report also mentions that Pakistan and Iran have initiated talks to ease tensions after recent airstrikes from both sides. These discussions come amid recent conflicts between Taliban forces and Pakistan’s border security, which have resulted in fatalities and ongoing disputes over territory.
