ISLAMABAD: Defence experts on Friday underscored the growing threats to the region’s strategic stability because of advanced defence purchases by India, its pursuit of dangerous war-fighting doctrines and its jingoistic ruling elite, as they urged the Pakistan government to develop military capabilities for countering any Indian misadventure.

The experts expressed these views while participating in a webinar titled ‘India’s Counterforce Capabilities and Options’ that was hosted by the Strategic Vision Institute (SVI).

Former director general of the Arms Control and Disarmament Affairs Department of the Strategic Plans Division Khalid Banuri dwelt upon dynamics driving India’s pursuit of counterforce strategy, which included massive defence allocations, fast-tracked acquisitions and modernisation, and the planned integration of the armed forces.

Mr Banuri also recalled India’s existing collaborations with major arms suppliers like the US, Russia, and Israel, and the quest for more such arrangements.

Published in Dawn, November 28th, 2020