Pakistan ,India

Pakistan accelerates acquisition of advanced Chinese mobile artillery systems, outpacing India's procurement efforts and raising concerns over regional military balance.

In today's world, military strength isn't just about big guns—it's about being fast and adaptable. Recent reports indicate that Pakistan is rapidly enhancing its artillery capabilities with the acquisition of hundreds of advanced mobile artillery systems from China. These systems, known as SH-15 155mm Mounted Gun Systems (MGS), are mounted on trucks, giving them a significant advantage over traditional towed artillery.

What sets these MGS apart is their ability to quickly fire a few rounds and then relocate before the enemy can respond. This "shoot and scoot" tactic makes them harder to target and hit. In contrast, towed artillery requires more time to set up and take down, making them vulnerable to enemy fire, especially in today's battlefield, where drones and loitering munitions are becoming increasingly prevalent.

Since 2018, Pakistan has been securing deals with China for these advanced systems. It's rumored that Pakistan's orders may exceed 400 units, surpassing India's current fleet of K-9 Vajra-T tracked howitzers. The reported deployment of these systems near the Line of Control in 2023 has heightened India's concerns, particularly given China's presence in Tibet.

On the other hand, India's procurement of similar systems has faced obstacles due to bureaucratic delays. Despite ambitious plans, progress has been slow. However, there is hope in the growth of India's own artillery industry. Companies like Kalyani and Bharat Forge are now producing advanced howitzers domestically. The success of India's military modernization efforts hinges on embracing these local capabilities and expediting procurement processes.

This development underscores the ongoing arms race between India and Pakistan, highlighting the importance of staying ahead in military technology and capabilities. How India responds to Pakistan's acquisition of these advanced systems will be critical in maintaining the regional military balance. Streamlining procurement procedures and investing in indigenous solutions will be key steps in ensuring India's readiness for future challenges.

In conclusion, Pakistan's acquisition of advanced mobile artillery systems poses a significant challenge to India's military preparedness. To effectively counter this threat, India must prioritize modernization efforts and leverage domestic capabilities to stay ahead in the evolving security landscape of South Asia.