SOURCE: AFI
A report by the Institute of Strategic Studies, a Pakistan-based think tank, has raised concerns over India’s growing missile defense capabilities, arguing that they pose a significant threat to regional stability and Pakistan’s nuclear deterrent.
The report highlights the deployment of India’s Phase I missile defense system along the border with Pakistan and China, equipped with the S-400 air defense system. These systems have the capacity to detect objects up to 600 kilometers within Pakistani territory. India’s ongoing development of advanced radars with extended ranges further exacerbates the situation, potentially enabling the interception of Pakistan’s Hatf, Ghauri, and Shaheen missiles.
The think tank emphasizes that while no missile defense system is infallible, India’s claims of a 99.8% kill probability are exaggerated. However, the deployment of such systems can create a false sense of security, potentially emboldening India to adopt a more aggressive posture and increasing the risk of nuclear conflict.
The report also highlights the potential for India to utilize its missile defense capabilities in conjunction with its hypersonic missile development, conventional and nuclear arms buildup, and military space program to implement a counterforce preemptive strategy against Pakistan. This would significantly enhance India’s precision strike capabilities and exacerbate Pakistan’s security dilemma.
To counter India’s growing missile defense capabilities, Pakistan is exploring various options, including diversifying its delivery systems, developing advanced technologies to penetrate missile defense systems, and adopting strategies like mobility, dispersion, and camouflage to enhance the survivability of its nuclear forces.
The report concludes by emphasizing the need for Pakistan to carefully evaluate its strategic options in response to India’s evolving capabilities and to take necessary measures to safeguard its national security.