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Fleet Size & Diversity: India’s Air Force (IAF) boasts superior numbers with advanced platforms like Rafales, Su-30MKIs, and upcoming S-400 systems. Pakistan (PAF) relies on a smaller flee, including F-16s and domestically produced JF-17 Block IIIs, emphasizing cost-effectiveness and strategic partnerships.
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Technology Edge: India’s Rafale (4.5-gen) and S-400 SAMs provide air dominance and defense capabilities. Pakistan’s JF-17 Block III (AESA radar, PL-15 missiles) and upgraded F-16s offer credible deterrence, though lagging in high-end tech compared to India.
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Training & Experience: Both have skilled pilots; PAF emphasizes tactical agility and combat readiness (e.g., AIM-120C missiles on F-16s), while IAF benefits from large-scale exercises (e.g., Gagan Shakti) and diverse operational experience.
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Strategic Depth & Logistics: India’s larger economy and infrastructure support sustained conflict, while Pakistan’s centralized geography and Chinese/Russian partnerships (e.g., J-10C, RD-93 engines) enhance rapid response but strain in prolonged engagements.
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Modernization & Challenges: India faces integration hurdles with mixed Russian/Western systems; Pakistan’s limited budget prioritizes asymmetric capabilities (e.g., Ra’ad nuclear cruise missiles). Both invest in 5th-gen projects (AMCA vs. AZM), but implementation remains distant.
Verdict: India holds quantitative and qualitative advantages, but Pakistan’s focused modernization, strategic assets (e.g., Babur missiles), and regional alliances keep the balance tense. Nuclear deterrence and unresolved disputes (e.g., Kashmir) ensure neither seeks full-scale conflict.
