Pakistan continues to rely on professional expertise, strategic planning, and operational efficiency while managing a significant defence spending gap with India.
ISLAMABAD: New defence spending figures and expert assessments have highlighted how Pakistan has maintained its military capabilities despite operating with a significantly smaller defence budget compared with regional rival India.
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India ranked as the world’s fifth-largest defence spender in 2025, with military expenditure rising by 8.9 percent to reach $92.1 billion.
The report noted that Pakistan also recorded an increase in defence spending during the same period, with its military budget rising by 11 percent to approximately $11.9 billion.
Defence analysts said India allocated around $80 billion for its 2026-27 defence budget, while Pakistan kept its defence allocation comparatively limited at about $10.8 billion. Experts believe the difference reflects the contrasting economic capacities of both countries.
Analysts added that a large portion of Pakistan’s defence spending is directed toward salaries, maintenance, and essential operational requirements. Despite financial limitations, they say Pakistan has focused on professional training, strategic planning, and efficient use of resources to sustain its defence readiness.
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