Beijing: China has openly acknowledged its limitations in providing a defense shield for Pakistan against India’s BrahMos missile, delivering a significant setback to Pakistan’s military aspirations. Chinese officials have clarified that the advanced missile defense systems it has supplied to Pakistan, specifically the HQ-9B and HQ-16 surface-to-air missile systems, are incapable of effectively intercepting or neutralizing the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile.

This revelation comes amid growing concerns from Pakistan regarding its vulnerability to Indian missile strikes. Islamabad had expressed dissatisfaction over its defensive preparedness, prompting dialogue with Beijing for enhanced support. However, Chinese authorities have reportedly informed Pakistani counterparts that the HQ-9B and HQ-16 systems, while robust against certain aerial threats, fall short in countering the high-speed, low-altitude BrahMos missile.

In addition to the BrahMos challenge, India’s strategic use of Scalp cruise missiles and kamikaze drones has further undermined Pakistan’s air defense infrastructure. These advanced Indian weapons have reportedly succeeded in destroying critical Pakistani assets such as anti-stealth radar installations and key components of the HQ-9B and HQ-16 defense networks. The combined effect of these operations has exposed gaps in Pakistan’s ability to mount an effective defense against sophisticated Indian offensive capabilities.

The defense limitations and resulting operational challenges faced by Pakistan have been a topic of serious discussion between Chinese and Pakistani military officials. While China continues to support Pakistan in various strategic areas, this candid admission underscores the complexities and technological challenges inherent in modern missile defense systems. For Pakistan, it highlights an urgent need to reassess its defense strategy and explore alternative measures to address the evolving threat posed by India’s missile arsenal.