In a significant move to enhance its military capabilities, Pakistan plans to establish a new military unit dedicated to supervising the country’s missile capabilities. This announcement came from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during an Independence Day ceremony in Islamabad, where he addressed senior military officials.
The newly formed unit, named the Rocket Force Command, is designed to equip the military with advanced technology, enabling it to launch attacks on adversaries from various directions. Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the command’s role in bolstering Pakistan’s conventional warfare capabilities and praised the military’s performance amid heightened tensions with India.
The backdrop to this announcement is the recent conflict between Pakistan and India, which marked the most intense skirmish the two nuclear-armed nations had seen since 1999. The clashes in May resulted in over 70 casualties from both sides, predominantly fueled by missile, drone, and artillery exchanges. The Prime Minister’s remarks were undoubtedly influenced by the aftermath of this four-day conflict, which underscored the need for improved defense measures.
Pakistan has made strides in military readiness, deploying sophisticated missile technologies during the May confrontations, alongside advanced J-10C Vigorous Dragon and JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. In response to the recent escalation, the government has announced a 20 percent increase in defense spending for the current fiscal year, reflecting a strategic commitment to enhancing military capabilities.
Furthermore, discussions are underway to procure 40 new Chinese fighter jets and additional air defense systems, as part of a broader aim to modernize Pakistan’s armed forces. Defense analysts, including former General Talat Masood, pointed out that these measures are crucial for fortifying Pakistan’s military stance following the recent conflicts.
The situation in the region is further complicated by the historical tensions surrounding Kashmir, a territory claimed in full by both nations but divided since their independence from British rule in 1947. The recent hostilities were ignited by an attack on tourists in the Indian-administered portion of Kashmir in April, which India attributed to Islamabad, a claim that Pakistan has vehemently denied.
As both countries navigate their complicated relationship, Pakistan’s military enhancements signal a determined effort to safeguard its national interests while facing off against a longstanding rival.
