India vs Pakistan: A Growing Defense Divide in Asia

MILITARY SNAPSHOT
🛡️ April 30, 2025
Thematic Focus: Defence Expenditure, Regional Security, SIPRI 2024 Report

Opening Whisper:
In the shadows of war and whispers of peace, numbers often speak louder than arms.

Key Highlights

• India’s Military Spending (2024): USD 86.1 billion (5th globally), marking a 42% rise since 2015.
• Domestic Focus: 75% of capital outlay reserved for indigenous defence procurement (armoured vehicles, submarines, helicopters).
• Pakistan’s Spending: USD 10.2 billion (ranked 29th), just 11.84% of India’s defence budget.
• China’s Dominance: USD 314 billion, overtaking combined defence spending of India, Japan, South Korea, and Australia.
• US Lead: The United States tops the list at USD 997 billion in 2024.
• Strategic Trends: China’s modernisation includes stealth jets, UAVs, UUVs, cyberwarfare forces, and nuclear expansion.
• Regional Repercussions: Neighbouring countries are ramping up military spending in response to China’s assertive posture.

GS Paper Mapping:

• GS Paper 2: International Relations – Power dynamics between India, Pakistan, and China
• GS Paper 3: Internal Security – Defence budget priorities and indigenous capabilities
• GS Paper 3: Economy – Strategic allocation of capital expenditure

A Thought Spark — by IAS Monk:
Let the power of a nation not be measured in bombs or budgets,
but in how calmly it walks with strength, choosing when not to strike.