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June 01, 2025 , , ,

India vs Pakistan Fighter Jets: A Detailed Comparison of Air Power in South Asia



Introduction: A High-Altitude Rivalry

India and Pakistan have shared a long-standing and complex relationship shaped by history, politics, and military competition. Among their many defense assets, fighter jets play a crucial role in maintaining air dominance, national security, and strategic deterrence. As both countries modernize their air forces, a frequent question arises: How do India and Pakistan compare in terms of fighter jet strength?

In this article, we dive into an in-depth comparison of India and Pakistan's fighter jet fleets — from aircraft types and capabilities to modernization efforts and strategic doctrines.

India’s Fighter Jet Fleet: Modernizing for Multi-Role Dominance

Overview of the Indian Air Force (IAF)

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is one of the world’s most powerful and well-equipped air forces. With over 1,700 aircraft, including nearly 600 combat jets, the IAF continues to evolve with a mix of indigenous and foreign technology.

Key Fighter Jets in India’s Arsenal

1. Sukhoi Su-30MKI

  • Backbone of IAF's fighter fleet.

  • Twin-engine, multirole air superiority fighter.

  • Designed by Russia, customized for Indian needs.

  • Advanced avionics and thrust-vectoring capabilities.

2. Dassault Rafale

  • 36 Rafale jets inducted since 2020.

  • 4.5-generation multirole fighter.

  • Equipped with Meteor air-to-air missiles and SCALP cruise missiles.

  • Enhances India's long-range strike capabilities.

3. HAL Tejas

  • India’s indigenous lightweight fighter.

  • Designed for agility and quick response.

  • Represents self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

4. MiG-29 and Mirage 2000

  • Still in service after upgrades.

  • Perform interception and ground attack roles.

  • Both jets proved useful during the Balakot air strikes in 2019.

Modernization and Future Plans

India is investing heavily in air force upgrades:

  • Procurement of more Tejas Mk2 and AMCA stealth jets (under development).

  • Upgrading Su-30MKIs with advanced radar and weapons.

  • Collaborating with foreign partners for defense technology transfer.

Pakistan’s Fighter Jet Fleet: Compact and Growing Capabilities

Overview of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF)

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) operates over 400 combat aircraft, focusing on agility, cost-efficiency, and regional balance. PAF’s strength lies in strategic partnerships and rapid adaptation.

Key Fighter Jets in Pakistan’s Arsenal



1. JF-17 Thunder

  • Jointly developed by Pakistan and China.

  • Multirole fighter used in large numbers.

  • Cost-effective and rapidly produced.

  • Variants: Block I, II, and III (latest with AESA radar and better avionics).

2. F-16 Fighting Falcon

  • US-made, fourth-generation aircraft.

  • Known for air combat agility and precision strikes.

  • Backbone of PAF’s elite squadrons.

3. Mirage III & Mirage V

  • Legacy aircraft from France.

  • Extensively upgraded in Pakistan's programs.

4. Chinese-origin Fighters (F-7, etc.)

  • Limited roles as older platforms.

  • Being phased out for newer versions.

Modernization and Future Plans

Pakistan is:

  • Expanding the JF-17 Block III program.

  • Exploring new-generation jets from China (e.g., Chengdu J-10C).

  • Increasing emphasis on electronic warfare, air defense systems, and air-to-air missile upgrades.

India vs Pakistan: Air Power Comparison

FeatureIndiaPakistan
Approx. Combat Jets~600~400
Modern 4.5 Gen FightersRafale, Su-30MKIF-16, JF-17 Block III
Indigenous FighterHAL TejasJF-17 Thunder (jointly developed)
Long-Range StrikeYes (SCALP, BrahMos, Meteor)Limited (JF-17 with Chinese weapons)
Aerial RefuelingYesLimited
Stealth ProgramAMCA (under development)No confirmed stealth projects

India holds a technological and numerical edge, but Pakistan maintains regional parity through agile upgrades and tactical doctrine.

Role of Fighter Jets in National Security

Fighter jets serve several critical roles for both nations:

  • Deterrence: Both air forces act as deterrents during high tension.

  • Reconnaissance: Jets assist in monitoring borders and enemy activity.

  • Air Defense: Capable of intercepting threats at high altitudes and long distances.

  • Surgical Strikes: Precision missions like India’s Balakot airstrike in 2019 demonstrate the strategic utility of air power.

Balanced Strategies, Not Just Numbers

While India's fleet is larger and technologically more diverse, air power effectiveness depends on many factors — including training, maintenance, logistics, and doctrine. Pakistan’s use of JF-17s shows how cost-effective platforms can serve well with the right strategy.

India, on the other hand, is focusing on a balanced mix of indigenous growth and advanced imports, making it more self-reliant over time.

Conclusion: Air Supremacy in a Delicate Balance

The fighter jet capabilities of India and Pakistan reflect not just military readiness but also their strategic thinking and long-term defense goals. While India leads in aircraft variety, technology, and future readiness, Pakistan emphasizes efficiency, speed, and partnership-driven growth.

Both nations continue to invest in air superiority while avoiding open conflict. Their fighter jets stand not only as tools of defense but also as symbols of sovereignty, strength, and strategic intent in South Asia.

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