SOURCE: AFI
In recent years, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has made impressive strides in modernizing its fleet, especially in the procurement of fighter jets and Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft. This progress is notable given Pakistan’s challenging economic landscape, with issues like rising inflation, significant national debt, and dependency on foreign loans.
In contrast, the Indian Air Force (IAF), operating within a nation with a growing economy and a significantly larger defense budget, has faced procurement delays. Despite India’s financial advantages, red tape and systemic inefficiencies have slowed the pace of critical acquisitions. Here, we explore the factors behind Pakistan’s swift procurement and the reasons for India’s relatively sluggish acquisition process.
The PAF benefits from a more streamlined and centralized decision-making process within Pakistan’s defense apparatus. Pakistan’s military, particularly the air force, is known for wielding considerable influence over defense policies and procurement decisions. This centralized control allows for expedited decision-making and fewer bureaucratic delays, enabling the PAF to respond rapidly to its operational needs.
Pakistan’s close defense relationship with China has been instrumental in its rapid procurement of modern fighter jets. This partnership has allowed Pakistan to acquire and even co-develop aircraft like the JF-17 Thunder at a relatively low cost. The JF-17 program, a joint venture between Pakistan and China, exemplifies a cost-effective approach to modernizing the PAF’s fleet without straining the country’s finances. Additionally, China’s sale of advanced AWACS platforms like the ZDK-03 has bolstered Pakistan’s airborne surveillance capabilities at favorable financial terms.
Pakistan’s defense acquisitions often rely on external financial support or favorable credit lines, primarily from China and, to a lesser extent, the United States. This assistance has enabled the PAF to modernize its fleet without the upfront financial burden that would typically hinder a country with Pakistan’s economic challenges. Additionally, China’s willingness to provide flexible payment options has facilitated Pakistan’s procurement plans.
Rather than pursuing high-cost, high-capability platforms like the Indian Air Force’s Rafale jets, Pakistan has prioritized affordable and easily maintainable platforms that meet its specific strategic needs. This approach has allowed the PAF to keep its operational costs low while still achieving a credible deterrent capability. Pakistan’s approach is pragmatic and centered on securing adequate air power without financial overextension.
Challenges Facing the Indian Air Force in Acquisition and Modernization
The IAF operates within a complex bureaucratic framework that involves multiple layers of decision-making, from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to various procurement and finance committees. This multi-layered process can lead to extensive delays, even after requirements have been finalized. While the PAF benefits from a more centralized approach, the IAF must navigate a slower procurement path that involves numerous stakeholders and approvals at different government levels.
While India’s focus on transparency in defense acquisitions is commendable, it has also led to protracted timelines. India’s defense procurement process is governed by rigorous checks and balances, such as the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) guidelines, which are designed to reduce corruption and promote transparency. However, these procedural requirements often slow the procurement process. For example, the IAF’s deal for 126 Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) was delayed by over a decade, eventually leading to a scaled-down purchase of only 36 Rafale jets.
Defense deals in India are often subject to political scrutiny and legal challenges, which can stall acquisitions. High-profile defense contracts frequently attract media attention and political debate, occasionally resulting in inquiries and investigations. These interventions, while important for accountability, can delay the induction of urgently needed platforms.
The IAF has often sought advanced and high-end platforms like the Rafale, which come with higher costs and extended delivery schedules. India’s preference for cutting-edge technology, while enhancing the IAF’s capabilities, often results in prolonged negotiations and delays in delivery. In contrast, Pakistan’s more pragmatic approach emphasizes cost-effective solutions that are available for quicker deployment.
India’s emphasis on building a self-sufficient defense industry under the “Make in India” initiative has also added complexity to the IAF’s procurement process. While the goal of indigenization is crucial for India’s long-term strategic autonomy, it requires significant time, investment, and coordination. The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) program, for instance, has seen considerable delays, impacting the IAF’s fleet strength. The HAL Tejas, despite being a promising indigenous fighter, has faced production challenges, preventing timely deliveries to the IAF.
Despite its larger economy and defense budget, India’s defense procurement often faces delays due to bureaucratic inefficiencies, over-regulation, and policy shifts. In contrast, Pakistan’s streamlined and pragmatic procurement model, aided by strategic alliances, allows for rapid modernization despite economic limitations.