Pakistan's official spending on defense was increased to
Rs. 1.8 Trillion in 2024. Everybody knows that this is a grossly understated figure in books; Pakistan's spending on defense is at
USD 10 billion mark in 2024. How the military generate revenue is well-known as well. Those friends might have financed some projects but at what cost? Everything is for free or loans are to be repaid? I had been a pro-military commentator and posted a lengthy thread about my Pakistan's defense wish list in the older forum (private section). I also mentioned aircraft carrier in my wish list. But man... 5th generation fighter jet program is a huge investment with the potential to trigger an arms race that be will out of control. India is a huge country with much bigger economy and it is opening up to the world's largest OECD bloc for investments. Think about it.
5th generation fighter jet program is not a need but overspending in view of Pakistan's profound problems in other areas that are most likely to determine Pakistan's sustainability in the future.
Pakistan is a well-armed nuclear power. There is no comparison between Pakistan and Gaza. While Hamas has become a well-equipped and brave fighting force, Pakistan does not face existential crisis like Palestine from another state. But there is much to fix in Pakistan for it to endure long-term; most of the problems stem from corruption and misplaced priorities.
I am all for having good defense but projects should be carefully timed and in lock step with improvements in other areas for which Good Governance is needed. There is the right time for everything.
While that is an argument, Pakistan cannot change its neighbors and must find a way to co-exist with them peacefully in the long-term. It is not sensible to be fighting with Afghans and Indians all the time.