After the May 2025 conflict, India and Pakistan’s missile rivalry has escalated rapidly; analysts warn that China is increasingly playing an instrumental role in this arms race. Both nations are strengthening their missile capabilities further; Pakistan receiving advanced Chinese tech while India develops indigenous systems against perceived threats; this escalated competition is creating an uncertain security environment throughout South Asia.
Pakistan Missile Developments Limited.
Pakistan has significantly strengthened its missile arsenal thanks to the strategic partnership it shares with China. In May 2025, they utilized Chinese-made PL-15E air-to-air missiles during a conflict – their debut combat deployment – launched from Chengdu J-10C fighter jets from Chengdu J-10C fighter jets were effective against Indian aircraft including Rafale jets. Newsweek + Wikipedia + The National Interest reports this was successful against Indian Rafale jets.
Pakistan announced in August 2025 the creation of an Army Rocket Force Command in response to evolving security dynamics, in order to oversee and enhance Pakistan’s missile capabilities, reflecting their growing importance within their defense strategy. [Wikipedia]
India is taking proactive measures against these developments. The Indian government has expedited deployment of Pralay tactical ballistic missile, designed for precision strikes at ranges between 150 and 500 kilometers. Furthermore, Mission Sudarshan Chakra, an ambitious air and missile defense initiative which incorporates artificial intelligence with quantum technologies into a multi-layered shield against aerial threats is progressing quickly in India. *For reference purposes. +1 for accuracy
China’s Strategic Position
China has played an instrumental part in this arms race on multiple fronts. Not only is it providing Pakistan with advanced missile technology, but its deployment of an S-400 missile defense system near India-China borders has alarmed New Delhi as it could potentially negate India’s missile advantage – something highlighted by The Heritage Foundation report.
Furthermore, China’s rising influence in the region can be seen through its military support to Pakistan and aggressive actions in both the South China Sea and on India’s Line of Actual Control with Pakistan. This has caused both India and Pakistan to revaluate their strategies as they attempt to counterbalance China’s increasing footprint.
Regional Stability Implications
India, Pakistan and China’s increasingly intense missile race is creating an unstable security situation in South Asia. Analysts warn that advanced missile systems’ proliferation, combined with poor communication channels between nations increases the risk of miscalculations or unintended escalations; compounded further by each nation possessing nuclear arsenals which could prove disastrous should conflict arise between them.
Conclusion from The Heritage Foundation
India-Pakistan missile rivalry remains of primary concern, while China’s involvement adds a complex layer to regional security dynamics. All parties should engage in dialogue and confidence-building measures as soon as possible in order to reduce risks associated with this growing arms race.