Pakistan is actively modernising its nuclear arsenal with support from China and continues to view India as an existential threat, according to a new report from the US Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA).
The agency바카라s annual World Threat Assessment, released on Sunday, outlines growing security challenges in South Asia, with a particular focus on Pakistan바카라s military priorities and nuclear ambitions. The report underscores Islamabad's efforts to enhance its strategic capabilities and maintain deterrence amid persistent tensions with New Delhi.
바카라Pakistan is modernising its nuclear arsenal and maintaining the security of its nuclear materials and command-and-control systems,바카라 the report states. It also notes that Pakistan is "almost certainly" procuring goods applicable to weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) from foreign suppliers.
China바카라s Key Role
The report identifies China as Pakistan바카라s principal military and technological partner, providing both the materials and support needed for the country바카라s nuclear development. However, it also points to growing strains in the China-Pakistan relationship, particularly due to a series of deadly attacks on Chinese nationals working on infrastructure projects in Pakistan. These incidents have emerged as a source of diplomatic friction between the two allies.
In addition to direct transfers from China, the report says Pakistan is acquiring sensitive technology through intermediary countries, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates.
India Viewed as 'Existential Threat'
The DIA assessment reiterates that Pakistan perceives India as a fundamental threat to its national security and is therefore likely to continue investing in military modernisation, including the development of battlefield nuclear weapons. These systems are seen as a counterbalance to India바카라s conventional military superiority.
바카라Pakistan regards India as an existential threat and will continue to pursue its military modernisation effort, including the development of battlefield nuclear weapons, to offset India바카라s conventional military advantage,바카라 the report says.
Recent Cross-Border Escalation
The report also details a recent flare-up in hostilities following a late-April terrorist attack in India바카라s Jammu and Kashmir region. In response, India launched missile strikes on terrorism-linked infrastructure within Pakistan. This prompted several days of reciprocal attacks involving missiles, drones, and artillery fire between May 7 and 10, before both sides agreed to a ceasefire.
On the broader regional front, the intelligence assessment highlights India바카라s strategic efforts to counter Chinese influence by strengthening defense partnerships across the Indian Ocean. New Delhi is also continuing its efforts to manage the ongoing border dispute with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. Although both countries have agreed to disengage from two remaining friction points, the underlying border issue remains unresolved.
The report paints a sobering picture of regional instability driven by unresolved border conflicts, strategic rivalries, and nuclear posturing, with potential implications for global security.
