Many of the weapons Pakistan used most extensively in its recent conflict with India were acquired from China and Turkey. Specifically, the drones utilized against India were developed with Turkish assistance.
New Delhi: While conflict between India and Pakistan has a long history, the burgeoning military and political relationship between Turkey and Pakistan presents a new security concern for India. Turkey's growing cooperation with Pakistan, particularly in the defense sector, has become a serious concern for India. The close ties between the two nations have taken a new turn, potentially requiring India to reconsider its diplomatic strategy.
Pakistan and Turkey's Growing Military Ties
The relationship between Pakistan and Turkey has significantly improved in recent years, especially in the defense sector. Turkey has begun supplying Pakistan with modern military equipment and weapons, enhancing Pakistan's military capabilities. This includes drones, warships, fighter jets, and other high-tech defense equipment.
Notably, in 2018, Pakistan signed a $1.5 billion deal with Turkish defense company ASFAT for four MILGEM warships. Furthermore, the Pakistan Air Force has received F-16 Fighting Falcon jets from Turkey. Recently, Pakistan utilized Songar drones obtained from Turkey, developed by the Turkish company ASISGUARD.
These drones are designed for low-intensity conflicts and were used by Pakistan against India in the recent conflict. Earlier, on April 27th, a Turkish C-130 Hercules military aircraft landed in Karachi, with some reports claiming it carried weapons. This cooperation between Turkey and Pakistan signals a dangerous trend with potentially direct implications for Indian security.
Turkey's Support for Pakistan on the Kashmir Issue
Turkey's support for Pakistan extends beyond the defense sector; it also includes backing Pakistan on the Kashmir issue. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has repeatedly made statements in favor of Kashmiris. In February 2023, Erdoğan stated that Turkey stands with the Kashmiris. Turkey has also consistently supported Pakistan on international platforms like the United Nations General Assembly.
Erdoğan has visited Pakistan multiple times to strengthen bilateral ties, and both countries have established a High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council to further enhance their relationship strategically.
Impact on India's Security
The growing relationship between Turkey and Pakistan can significantly impact India's security. Specifically, the modern weapons and drones supplied by Turkey are bolstering Pakistan's military strength against India. The addition of Turkish F-16 jets and other advanced weaponry to the Pakistan Air Force poses a new challenge for Indian security agencies.
India is concerned about this increasing military cooperation, as it provides Pakistan with new military technology and strategic capabilities, potentially emboldening its aggressive stance. Therefore, India may need to strategically contain Turkey diplomatically and globally. India must ensure Turkey's isolation on international forums to curb the military assistance provided to Pakistan.
Shift in India's Diplomatic Strategy
In response to the growing Turkey-Pakistan relationship, India has adjusted its diplomatic strategy. India is strengthening its ties with countries that are adversaries of Turkey. India has improved relations with Greece and Cyprus in the Eastern Mediterranean. Furthermore, India has supported the Republic of Cyprus against Turkey's claims in Northern Cyprus. Such actions could help India mount a b diplomatic response against the Turkey-Pakistan alliance.
