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Former Pakistani High Commissioner to India, Abdul Basit, has stirred controversy with bold assertions about the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) surpassing the Indian Air Force (IAF) in capabilities.
In a recent interview, Basit, now a commentator on Indo-Pak relations, claimed that the PAF currently holds an edge over the IAF, a position he believes will be further cemented with the addition of the Chinese J-35A and Turkish TAI TF Kaan fighter jets to Pakistan's arsenal.
Basit argued that despite India's numerical advantage in aircraft, Pakistan has maintained a qualitative edge through strategic acquisitions and upgrades.
"The Pakistan Air Force has been proactive in modernizing its fleet, ensuring that we are not only matching but in some respects surpassing the capabilities of our neighbours," he stated.
He specifically highlighted the J-35A, a fifth-generation stealth fighter from China, as a "game-changer" for the PAF. Basit emphasized the aircraft's advanced stealth features, superior avionics, and integration capabilities, claiming it would provide Pakistan with unprecedented air superiority.
He further suggested that the J-35A would bolster Pakistan's defence against not only India but also any potential regional adversary.
Basit also discussed Pakistan's interest in the TAI TF Kaan, Turkey's indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet. He framed this potential acquisition as a testament to the growing strategic partnership between Pakistan and Turkey, praising the Kaan for its cutting-edge technology, including stealth capabilities and multi-role functions.
He believes the Kaan will complement Pakistan's existing fleet and provide diverse tactical options in future air combat scenarios.
Addressing the implications for the Indian Air Force, Basit suggested that India has been slow to modernize its fleet with fifth-generation aircraft.
While acknowledging the development of India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), he pointed out that its induction is still years away.
"Time is of the essence in military technology, and by the time India fully integrates its new fighters, Pakistan will have already established a significant lead," he argued.
Basit's claims are likely to be met with skepticism in India, where the IAF is generally considered to have a significant advantage over the PAF.
However, his statements highlight the potential impact of advanced fighter jets like the J-35A and TAI Kaan on the regional balance of power and underscore the ongoing competition for air dominance in South Asia.
