Pakistan Modernizes Nuclear Arsenal While Strengthening Security Measures
US Report: Pakistan Sees India as Existential Threat, Relies on China for Military and Economic Support;
Pakistan continues to see India as a serious threat and is actively working to modernize its military—especially by developing tactical nuclear weapons—as part of efforts to counter India’s military edge. That’s according to a new report from the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), released on Sunday.
The report says Pakistan views India not just as a rival, but as an existential danger. In response, it’s investing heavily in its defense systems, including its nuclear capabilities. The DIA notes that Pakistan is not only updating its nuclear arsenal but also working to ensure the security of its nuclear materials and command systems. Pakistan likely obtains sensitive weapons-related materials from foreign suppliers, often through intermediaries.
"Pakistan is modernising its nuclear arsenal and maintaining the security of its nuclear materials and nuclear command and control. Pakistan almost certainly procures WMDapplicable goods from foreign suppliers and intermediaries," the report stated.
The report says that although China is still Pakistan’s main source of military equipment, their relationship has been tested by a series of terrorist attacks targeting Chinese workers in Pakistan. These attacks have become a growing point of tension between the two close allies.
"Pakistan regards India as an existential threat and will continue to pursue its military modernisation effort, including the development of battlefield nuclear weapons, to offset India’s conventional military advantage," it said.
However, 2024 also saw a tragic rise in violence against Chinese workers in Pakistan. 7 Chinese nationals were killed, sparking serious concerns about the safety of its citizens and investments in the country. These workers are involved in major infrastructure projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. These attacks have increased pressure for both sides to improve security measures putting strain on the relationship between the two nations.