Facing Two Fronts: India's Military Readiness Against China and Pakistan

 

India Prepares for Potential Two-Front War with China and Pakistan

Gagan Shakti 2024: India's Massive Air Combat Drill

Beginning April 1, 2024, India will commence Gagan Shakti, a comprehensive military exercise designed to test its preparedness for simultaneous air combat on Western and Eastern fronts with Pakistan and China.

Objectives

• Evaluate Indian Air Force (IAF) capabilities to engage with Pakistan and China simultaneously.
• Demonstrate and validate new equipment and technologies acquired by the IAF, including:
  • French Rafale fighter jets
  • Indian-made Light Combat Helicopters (LCHs)
  • C-295 транспортный самолет
  • Sukhoi fighter jets equipped with BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles
  • Medium Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missiles (BVRAAMs) for Rafale fleet

Scope

The exercise will simulate various combat and operational scenarios, including:

• Aerial air-to-surface combat
• Paratrooper assault
• Medical evacuation

Strategic Significance

Gagan Shakti 2024 is designed to address the evolving strategic situation in South Asia, where:

• China and Pakistan have strengthened their ties.
• China has expressed concerns over recent attacks in Pakistan that resulted in the deaths of Chinese nationals.
• India and China have experienced heightened tensions along the disputed Arunachal Pradesh border.

India's Message to Neighbors

The exercise serves as a strong message to neighboring countries that India is prepared for any potential conflicts.

Legacy and Implications

Gagan Shakti 2024 builds upon the success of previous IAF exercises:

• Vayu Shakti: A firepower demonstration in the Thar Desert
• Tarang Shakti: India's first multinational exercise scheduled for August 2023, involving allies such as the US, Germany, France, Australia, and neighboring countries