Islamabad: Pakistan’s defense industry has witnessed a significant rise in international orders following the May 2025 military confrontation between Pakistan and India, Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif said on Tuesday.
The development could strengthen Pakistan’s economy and reduce its reliance on external financial assistance, including support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Pakistan Air Force Performance Draws Global Attention
Speaking during a private television programme, Khawaja Asif said the Pakistan Air Force’s operational performance during the May conflict attracted widespread international interest. According to him, the confrontation served as a real-world test of Pakistan’s defense systems, successfully validating their technological capability and combat readiness.
“The performance of our aircraft demonstrated advanced technology under actual battlefield conditions,” the minister said, adding that this had led to growing demand for Pakistani defense equipment from abroad.
Reduced IMF Dependence Possible, Says Defense Minister
Khawaja Asif claimed that if the newly secured defense export orders are fully executed, Pakistan may not need IMF financial assistance within the next six months. He described the surge in orders as international recognition of Pakistan’s military strength and defense manufacturing capacity.
He further stated that the May 2025 episode enhanced Pakistan’s global credibility, improving its diplomatic and economic standing.
Warning to India Against Future Aggression
The defense minister said that while issuing a warning to India, Pakistan was fully prepared to respond decisively to any future military aggression. He emphasized that Pakistan’s response in May reflected national unity and military preparedness, adding that similar resolve would be shown again if required.
He also alleged that during the conflict, India sought diplomatic intervention from major powers, including the United States and China, while Pakistan acted swiftly on the ground, impacting Indian morale and confidence.
Criticism of Afghan Taliban and Domestic Governance
Commenting on regional security, Khawaja Asif criticized the Afghan Taliban, claiming they could not be trusted regardless of faction and alleging links with India. He also criticized past military and political leadership for supporting assumptions regarding the Taliban’s return to power.
The defense minister further targeted the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provincial government, blaming governance failures for the resurgence of militancy in the region. He claimed terrorism expanded during the previous PTI government and alleged that individuals linked to militant financing continued to hold positions of influence.
Pakistan Armed Forces Among World’s Strongest
Khawaja Asif said Pakistan’s armed forces remained among the strongest in the world, dismissing comparisons with foreign military interventions elsewhere. He stressed that no external military operation could succeed in Pakistan due to the country’s resilience, geography, and defense preparedness.
