Analysis: Pakistan’s Underrated Maritime Air Presence – and its Future Challenges Quwa Premium

Since its decisive naval defeat in the 1971 war, Pakistan has methodically constructed a sophisticated anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) capability in the Northern Arabian Sea. This report details the multi-decade strategic effort by the Pakistan Air Force and Navy to build a layered, network-enabled shield designed to deter India’s larger naval forces.

Our analysis charts this evolution through three distinct phases:

1. Foundational Response (1970s): The initial pairing of long-range surveillance aircraft with Exocet-armed Mirage fighters established the core doctrine.

2. Stagnation and Vulnerability (1980s-1990s): Sanctions halted modernization, creating a dangerous capability gap as India’s naval power grew.

3. Network-Enabled Resurgence (2000s-Present): The introduction of the JF-17 fighter, advanced P-3C Orion patrol aircraft, and indigenous tactical data links (Link-17 and Link-Green) created a modern, integrated force. The JF-17 Block 3, with its AESA radar, now provides a crucial qualitative edge.

Today, Pakistan’s maritime airpower presents a credible deterrent. However, this position is now challenged by India’s procurement of advanced Rafale-M fighters. To understand how Pakistan plans to counter this threat with next-generation patrol aircraft (Sea Sultan), advanced drones, and potentially new fighters, subscribe for the full, in-depth report.