India’s Military Allies: Russia, France, Israel – While Pakistan Leans Solely on China

India’s Military Allies: Russia, France, Israel – While Pakistan Leans Solely on China

In the pursuit of becoming dominant powers in global geopolitics, both India and Pakistan are rapidly expanding their military capabilities. Recent reports indicate that these neighboring countries are now among the world’s top arms importers. At the same time, both nations have significantly increased investments in nuclear weapons and technological advancements.

According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India was the second-largest arms importer in the world from 2020 to 2024, accounting for 8.3% of global arms imports during this period.

India's major arms suppliers:

• Russia – 36%

• France – 33%

• Israel – 18%

• Other countries – 13%

While India has traditionally relied heavily on Russian arms, it is now increasingly sourcing weapons from France, Israel, and the United States, indicating a strategic shift toward diversified defense partnerships.

On the other hand, Pakistan increased its arms imports by 61% between 2015–2019 and 2020–2024. During this period, the country acquired various modern military assets, including fighter jets and warships.

Pakistan's major arms supplier:

• China – 81%

• Other countries – 9%

Pakistan is now the fifth-largest arms importer globally, with a 4.6% share of the international market.

According to the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICANW), global spending on nuclear weapons reached $91.4 billion in 2023. Out of this, India spent $2.7 billion, and Pakistan spent $1 billion.

India conducted its first nuclear test in May 1974, and in 1998, it carried out five more tests, officially declaring itself a nuclear-armed nation. Pakistan responded in the same year with its own nuclear tests, establishing its status as a nuclear power.

India’s nuclear and missile programs are primarily designed to counter threats from Pakistan and China. The country is working on long-range missiles, mobile launch platforms, and submarine- and ship-based missile systems, with significant assistance from Russia.

Pakistan, meanwhile, has developed strong capabilities in short- and medium-range mobile ballistic missiles, capable of targeting many regions in India. China plays a crucial role in supporting Pakistan’s missile development.