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India.com
2 days ago
- Business
- India.com
Neither US nor China! These Muslim nations if join hands will be more powerful, they are Iran and...
(File) Most powerful Muslim countries: The United States, China, and Russia are the three great powers in today multipolar world, with Washington being the preeminent military power which is at odds with the combined strength of Beijing and Moscow. However, there are more than 57 Muslim nations in the world, and their combined military power is more than enough to topple any world power, including the combined forces of the US, China, and Russia. Most powerful Muslim countries as per Global Firepower Index Turkey: According to the Global Firepower Index 2023, Turkey is the most powerful Muslim country on the planet, boasting an army that has 3,55,200 active soldiers, 3,78,700 reserve soldiers, 55,104 armored vehicles and 286 rocket launchers. Turkey has 205 fighter planes and 12 submarines, but its core strength comes from indigenously made military drones, such as the Bayraktar TB2 and TB3, which have proven their mettle in several conflict zones around the world. Pakistan: While Pakistan suffered a humiliating defeat at India's hands in the recent military conflict, the neighboring country is still a military powerhouse, ranking 12th on the Global Firepower Index 2025. Pakistan boasts the world's sixth-largest standing army, with approximately 6.54 lakh active soldiers, 5 lakh reserves, and a total military strength of 17 lakh. The country has 328 fighter jets, 114 naval ships, 108 submarines 108, 3700 tanks, and more than 50,000 armored vehicles Iran: Iran, the arch-nemesis of US and Israel, which reportedly is now at the brink of becoming a nuclear power, has one of the largest armies in Central Asia with 5.75 lakh active soldiers. The Iranian forces are bolstered by 4071 combat tanks, 551 aircraft, 101 warships, 186 fighter jets and 129 military helicopters. Egypt: Egypt is major military power among Arab nations in the Middle East. This ancient country ranks 19th on the Global Firepower Index, with an army of more than 3 lakh active personnel. Among Islamic nations, Egypt is ranked as the 5th most powerful Muslim country. Saudi Arabia: One of the richest countries on the planet, the Desert Kingdom is ranked 24th on the Global Firepower 2025 list, with a army of 2,57,000 active soldiers, and 1,50,000 paramilitary forces. Saudi Arabia has 840 tanks, 19,040 military vehicles, 332 self-propelled artillery, 321 rocket launchers, 917 aircraft, including 283 fighter jets in its Air Force. Algeria: Last but not the least, Algeria, which ranks 6th most powerful among Islamic countries, and 26th among 146 countries on the global index, is a military power in its own right, with a standing army of 3.25 lakh active soldiers.
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First Post
11-05-2025
- Politics
- First Post
A pause, not peace: India and Pakistan at a crossroads
Unless Pakistan changes its jihadi course, the India-Pakistan ceasefire may prove untenable and the peace remains fragile read more This is a defining moment in South Asia. The post-Cold War geopolitics is carving a new line after 'Operation Sindoor'. India conducted a series of precision air and missile strikes on May 7, 2025, targeting nine sites in Pakistan. These strikes were in retaliation for the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 Indian tourists. India identified the targeted locations as terrorist infrastructure associated with groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed. Pakistan has also fired missiles in which seven civilians are killed in India. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Tensions were escalating, and most likely the war seemed imminent. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for maximum restraint from both India and Pakistan, emphasising that 'the world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan.' The other big powers added the same language of restraint and demanded peace. But the ceasefire happened on May 10. US President Donald Trump wrote on X, 'After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a FULL AND IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE. Congratulations to both countries on using common sense and great intelligence. Thank you for your attention to this matter!' However, there were reports of ceasefire violations from Pakistan's side, but as per the India Today report, 'The Indian Army, in an official statement, said the ceasefire along the LoC is intact and continues to be observed as per the understanding between both the armies.' Moreover, the ceasefire may prove untenable; under such circumstances, a comparative assessment of India and Pakistan's diplomatic and military strengths and weaknesses becomes imperative. Comparative Diplomatic and Military strengths India has cultivated strategic partnerships with multiple major powers, including the United States, Russia, France, and Israel, providing access to diverse military technology and diplomatic support. In any confrontation between India and Pakistan, a multitude of factors come into play, spanning conventional military strength, nuclear capabilities, economic endurance, technological advancements, and geopolitical dynamics. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD While both nations possess formidable armed forces, a comparative analysis reveals several areas where India holds a significant advantage, alongside specific strengths that Pakistan leverages for its defence posture. As of early 2025, India is consistently ranked as the 4th most powerful military globally, while Pakistan holds the 12th position according to the Global Firepower Index. India maintains a considerably larger active military force, with approximately 1.4 to 1.46 million personnel, compared to Pakistan's roughly 654,000. India also has a larger pool of reserve personnel (around 1.15 million) and available manpower (estimated at over 650 million reaching military age annually compared to Pakistan's 108 million). This numerical superiority is underpinned by a significantly larger defence budget. India's defence expenditure for 2024-2025 is in the range of $79 billion to $86.1 billion, making it one of the world's top military spenders. In contrast, Pakistan's defence budget is estimated to be between $7.6 billion and $10.2 billion. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Chinese Perspectives China has already confirmed strong diplomatic and material support for Pakistan, particularly at forums like the United Nations Security Council, where it might block or dilute anti-Pakistan resolutions. Beijing may blame India for triggering the crisis, especially if it relates to Kashmir, and push for international intervention — which India traditionally resists. China may mobilise troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to divert Indian military attention and resources. China could provide Pakistan with real-time intelligence, cyberwarfare capabilities, and surveillance data to enhance Pakistan's battlefield awareness. China is very shrewd in its display of diplomacy; its actions will be merely limited to verbal support unless its own interests are not being targeted. Russia's Views in Times of War between India and Pakistan If an all-out war breaks out between India and Pakistan, Russia's response would be shaped by its historical ties with India, growing ties with Pakistan, its strategic autonomy, and its interest in regional stability. Historically, Russia (and previously the Soviet Union) has been a trusted strategic partner of India, especially during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. In a modern conflict, Russia would likely maintain official neutrality but offer behind-the-scenes diplomatic support to India. Russia might oppose any UN sanctions or resolutions against India and work to prevent the internationalisation of the conflict, in line with India's traditional stance. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD European Countries If an all-out war breaks out between India and Pakistan, the response of European countries would be guided by their core foreign policy principles—conflict prevention, nuclear non-proliferation, human rights, and strategic alliances. While the European Union (EU) may issue a unified response, key individual countries like the UK, France, and Germany may also act independently. Role of Islamic States If the ceasefire is breached and the war starts, the Islamic countries' responses would not be uniform. While many would express solidarity with Pakistan, the degree of political, military, or economic support would vary based on national interests, bilateral ties with India, geopolitical alignments, and sectarian divisions (Sunni vs Shia). Turkey under Erdoğan has been consistently supporting Pakistan, especially on Kashmir at UN forums. Despite religious solidarity, geoeconomic realities, sectarian divides, and diplomatic pragmatism ensure that most Islamic countries will not support Pakistan beyond words and andwill avoid alienating India—a major economic and strategic partner. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Nuclear Dangers Estimates of nuclear warhead stockpiles vary, but both countries are believed to possess a comparable number, with Pakistan (around 170-172 warheads) potentially having a slight numerical edge over India (around 165-180 warheads). Both nations have sophisticated ballistic and cruise missile programmes capable of delivering nuclear warheads. India's Agni series of missiles includes the Agni-V, an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) with a reported range of 7,000–8,000 km, capable of reaching deep into neighbouring territories. India has also successfully tested Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) technology for the Agni-V, allowing a single missile to carry multiple warheads. Pakistan's missile arsenal includes the Shaheen and Ghauri series of ballistic missiles, with the Shaheen-III having a range of up to 2,750 km, capable of targeting all of India. Pakistan has also been developing MIRV technology for its Ababeel missile (range 2,200 km). It also possesses cruise missiles like the Babur and Ra'ad, which can be launched from ground, air, and sea platforms. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A significant difference lies in their declared nuclear doctrines. India adheres to a 'No First Use' (NFU) policy, pledging not to initiate a nuclear attack but reserving the right to a massive retaliatory strike if attacked with nuclear weapons. Pakistan, on the other hand, does not have an NFU policy and maintains a stance of 'credible minimum deterrence,' which is widely interpreted to include the possible first use of tactical or strategic nuclear weapons to counter a large-scale Indian conventional attack. This doctrine aims to offset India's conventional military superiority. Conclusion In a conventional conflict scenario, India holds a clear quantitative and qualitative military advantage over Pakistan across its army, air force, and navy. However, Pakistan's nuclear arsenal and its 'first use' policy serve as a potent deterrent against a full-scale conventional war. Nevertheless, in the event of the failure of a ceasefire, India's economic clout, strategic importance, democratic credentials, and anti-terrorism narrative give it a significant advantage in the global diplomatic arena. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Satish Kumar teaches Political Science at IGNOU and Bhavana Panday is principal of Dayal Singh College Evening. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost's views.
India.com
11-05-2025
- Politics
- India.com
World's Most Powerful Militaries: Does India Feature In Top 10? Check Pakistans Rank
photoDetails english 2899507 The military is one of the most significant pillars of any nation, tasked with safeguarding national sovereignty, ensuring territorial integrity, and deterring potential adversaries. A strong military force is always essential to protect a country's borders and maintain internal and external security. Tensions between India and Pakistan have recently escalated following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 26, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people—25 of whom were Indian nationals, and one a Nepali citizen. This tragic incident has fueled broader conflict between the two countries. But do you know which are the most powerful militaries in the world, and the Pakistan exist? According to the Global Firepower Index, India ranks among the top military powers globally. To see how Pakistan stands in comparison and where India ranks, check the latest Global Firepower ranking. Updated:May 11, 2025, 01:43 PM IST United States 1 / 7 The US remains the top military power, with advanced tech, global presence, nuclear arsenal, and strong NATO alliances. Russia 2 / 7 Russia maintains vast land forces, a strong nuclear arsenal and advanced artillery, remaining a key global military power despite economic challenges. China 3 / 7 China's military modernisation emphasises naval strength, cyber warfare, and missiles, aiming to challenge Western dominance with rising defence budgets and global ambitions. India 4 / 7 India ranks fourth globally, backed by large manpower, indigenous defence upgrades, nuclear capability, and high-altitude warfare expertise, enhancing its strategic and regional military strength. South Korea 5 / 7 South Korea ranks fifth and maintains a highly advanced, disciplined military focused on countering North Korea. United Kingdom 6 / 7 The UK military combines professionalism, nuclear capability, and global reach, with advanced assets like F-35s and carriers, playing a key NATO role. The UK ranks in the sixth position. (Representational Image: ANI) 7 / 7 The seventh, eighth, ninth, and tenth ranks go to France, Japan, Türkiye, and Italy respectively. Meanwhile, Pakistan holds the 12th position. (Representational Image: ANI)
NDTV
30-04-2025
- Politics
- NDTV
India And Pakistan's Military Strengths: How Arch-Rivals Stack Up
New Delhi: The killing of 26 tourists by terrorists with cross-border linkage in Jammu and Kashmir has raised tension between India and Pakistan. India has also responded with effective fire at Pakistan's violation of the ceasefire on the Line of Control (LoC). Here's your 10-point cheat sheet to this story India has 14.75 lakh active military personnel, and 16.16 lakh paramilitary police personnel, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). India has 1,437 fixed-wing aircraft, 995 helicopters, 7,074 armoured fighting vehicles (AFVs), and 11,225 pieces of artillery. The defence budget is $81 billion for 2025. For nuclear deterrence, India uses a primarily land-based launch platform. However, India can also deliver nuclear bombs from the air, and is developing its submarine force. It has intermediate-range ballistic missiles, and is testing an intercontinental-range version. Pakistan has a much smaller defence budget of $10 billion for 2025. It has 6.6 lakh active military personnel, less than half of what India has. Pakistan maintains a paramilitary police strength of 2.91 lakh. Pakistan has 812 fixed-wing aircraft, 322 helicopters, 6,137 AFVs, and 4,619 artillery pieces. The gap between India and Pakistan's AFV strength is not very wide, according to SIPRI data. Islamabad has both land-based and air-delivered nuclear weapons, with medium-, short- and close-range ballistic missiles. Pakistan has sought submarine-launched nuclear-armed cruise missiles. A comparison of India and Pakistan's military strengths by the annual global defence review 'Global Firepower Index' (GFP) shows India has a better score with 0.1184 in the GFP's 'PowerIndex score' (PwrIndx). A score of 0.00 is considered optimal, according to the GFP. Under this index, India ranks 4th out of 145 countries in the PwrIndx military strength ranking. The GFP gave a PwrIndx of 0.2513 to Pakistan, and placed it on the 12th out of 145 spots in global military strength rankings. The GFP data shows Pakistan is at a rank that is three times lower than India. The last biggest escalation between the two neighbours was in February 2019 when India bombed a terror camp deep inside Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), in retaliation against the suicide bombing attack on a convoy of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. Since 2019, both sides have boosted their military capabilities. India is also the world's largest arms importer, according to SIPRI. The bulk of India's supplies come from Russia. New Delhi has also expanded military suppliers to include the US, France and Israel, as well as developing its domestic production, including aircraft carriers, submarines and helicopters.
Time of India
25-04-2025
- Business
- Time of India
India vs Pakistan military comparison 2025: Who has better defence capabilities, stronger army, navy & air force
NEW DELHI: The brutal terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, which killed 26 civilians, has sharply escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, reigniting fears of military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. Since the April 22 attack on the popular tourist destination, India has taken several retaliatory measures including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, closing the Attari border post, revoking visas for Pakistani nationals, and capping diplomatic staff in Pakistan missions. India Vs Pakistan Military Might: A Detailed Analysis Of Army, Navy and Air Force | Pahalgam Revenge Pakistan, in turn, has announced its own retaliatory diplomatic and military postures, including pausing the Simla Agreement, launching missile tests along its coastline and closure of trade and visa facilities with India. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Intel Laptops + 1:1 Support for Your Team Lenovo Pro Benefits Learn More Undo The Pahalgam terror attack has exacerbated an already volatile relationship, with both countries adopting hardline stances and engaging in military posturing. The risk of escalation remains high, particularly given the history of four wars and ongoing disputes over Kashmir. Both militaries are on high alert, and any miscalculation could lead to wider conflict. Understanding the military capabilities of both nations is crucial for assessing the potential trajectory of this crisis and the broader security dynamics of South Asia. Personnel and forces India is ranked as the fourth most powerful military globally according to the 2025 Global Firepower Index, while Pakistan is ranked 12. India maintains a significantly larger active military force, with approximately 1.46 million active personnel and an additional 1.15 million in reserve. Pakistan's active military personnel number around 654,000, with paramilitary forces numbering about 500,000 compared to India's 2.5 million paramilitary personnel. Defence budgets India's defence budget for 2025-26 is approximately $79 billion (Rs 6.8 lakh crore), reflecting a 9.5% increase over the previous year. Pakistan's defence budget is substantially smaller, around $7.6 billion. This budget disparity translates into greater procurement, modernisation, and maintenance capabilities for India. Armored and mechanised forces India fields about 4,201 tanks, including advanced models like the T-90 Bhishma and the indigenous Arjun tanks. Pakistan has approximately 2,627 tanks, a smaller armored fleet in comparison . Moreover, India possesses over 148,000 armored vehicles, roughly three times the number held by Pakistan, indicating superior mechanised mobility and firepower on the ground. Missile and nuclear capabilities Both nations possess nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs, which act as strategic deterrents. India has developed and deployed the Agni-V missile with a range exceeding 5,200 km and is working on the Agni-VI to counter threats from China and Pakistan. Pakistan's longest-range missile, the Shaheen-III, has a range of about 2,750 km, but it is actively pursuing longer-range ballistic missile technology with potential ranges beyond 3,000 km, reportedly with assistance from China and Belarus. Air and naval power India's air force is considered one of the most powerful in Asia, equipped with a mix of modern fighter jets including the Rafale, Su-30MKI, and indigenous Tejas fighters. India Simulates Precision Strikes With Rafales Amid Tensions With Pak Over Kashmir Terror Attack Pakistan's air force, though smaller, fields capable aircraft such as the JF-17 Thunder and F-16 fighters. India's navy is also larger and more technologically advanced, with an aircraft carrier, nuclear submarines, and a range of surface combatants, while Pakistan's navy is smaller but maintains a focus on coastal defense and submarine capabilities. Advantage India The Pahalgam attack has led to a hardening of military and diplomatic postures on both sides. Declaring a war on terror, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed to hunt to the "ends of the earth" the perpetrators who planned and carried out the Pahalgma terror attack. Defence minister Rajnath Singh has also promised a "loud and clear" response, signaling possible military action. Within 48 hours of the attack, the Indian Navy carried out missile tests in the Arabian Sea while the Indian Air Force held a huge military exercise dubbed 'Aakraman'. The military balance between India and Pakistan remains heavily tilted in India's favor in terms of personnel, budget, technology, and conventional forces. India's larger and more modern military, combined with its advanced missile and nuclear capabilities, provides it with significant strategic depth. Pakistan, while smaller, continues to pursue missile advancements and maintains a potent nuclear deterrent.
