On April 22, 2025, at least 28 people were killed and over 20 injured in an attack in the tourist destination of Pahalgam in occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The dead included personnel from the Indian Navy, intelligence agencies and tourists. The attack was claimed by ‘The Resistance Front’ (TRF), which claimed that the attack was aimed at resisting the settlement of non-locals, which it sees as part of the demographic change in Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The incident has once again brought into focus the defense balance and especially the air power comparison between Pakistan and India, the two nuclear-armed countries in South Asia.
The two countries are constantly competing for supremacy not only on the land and naval fronts but also in the airspace.
The backbone of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) is the JF-17 Thunder aircraft, the latest version of which is the JF-17 Block III. These aircraft are equipped with AESA radar, advanced BVR missiles and digital avionics. In addition, Pakistan has the Chinese J-10C, which is a modern 4.5+ generation multi-role fighter jet, and the American F-16 aircraft, which are considered the best for air superiority in dogfighting.
On the other hand, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has Rafale aircraft acquired from France, which are equipped with Meteor BVR missiles, SCALP cruise missiles and advanced electronic warfare systems. And in addition, India has a large number of Su-30MKIs, while the indigenously developed Tejas LCA has also become a part of the Indian Air Force, but these aircraft are not yet considered capable of competing with the world's major air powers at a full operational level.
India has over 600 fighter jets while Pakistan has around 350.
But when it comes to operational efficiency and decision-making agility, Pakistan has the edge thanks to cost-effective and highly integrated platforms like the JF-17.
The Pakistan Air Force’s defensive strategy, training and professionalism make it a formidable air force even with a small number. The Balakot incident is a clear example of this, where Pakistan shot down an Indian MiG-21 and captured Wing Commander Abhinandan, sending a message to the world that not only the number of weapons, but also training, experience and quick response capability are decisive.
The Indian Air Force has the advantages of technical diversity, large numbers and high funding, but it faces several difficulties in integrating systems. In contrast, Pakistan, despite its limited resources, has integrated planning, compatible technology, and dynamic command systems that are capable of responding quickly to any emergency. Modern air warfare is not just about strength or numbers, but strategic superiority, quick and accurate decisions, and effective training are the elements that give any air force an edge, and in this field, Pakistan has an edge over India.
