Turkey’s material assistance to Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack marks a significant shift in South Asia’s strategic balance.
The delivery of Turkish military hardware, including six C-130 transport aircraft at Pakistani airports, signals the formation of an emerging Turkey-Pakistan-China axis. This budding alliance has the potential to reshape regional geopolitics, particularly as tensions with India continue to rise.
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Turkey Steps Up Pakistan’s Defense Capabilities
On Sunday, a Turkish Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft landed in Karachi carrying unspecified military equipment. Simultaneously, six additional Turkish military transport planes arrived at a military airbase in Islamabad.
While official details of the cargo remain undisclosed, the shipments underscore Ankara’s firm commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s defense posture. As Pakistan faces mounting security challenges along its borders, Turkey’s timely assistance enhances Islamabad’s military readiness.
China, Turkey, and Pakistan: Forging a Strategic Alliance
Turkey’s move closely follows China’s recent military support to Pakistan, including the provision of drones. Analysts believe that a China-Turkey-Pakistan triangle is rapidly taking shape, aimed at counterbalancing India’s influence in the region.
However, this growing defense collaboration raises concerns about the potential for increased conflict, given Pakistan’s historical involvement in proxy wars in Kashmir and Afghanistan.
Pakistan’s Heightened Military Mobilization
Amid rising regional threats, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has activated key strategic airbases such as Peshawar, Skardu, and Swat. Fighter aircraft, including the F-16, J-10, and JF-17, are now deployed there, with combat air patrols already operational.
Notably, the Skardu airbase has undergone significant upgrades, positioning it as a major hub for Pakistan’s air defense and surveillance operations. These moves reflect Islamabad’s efforts to bolster its military preparedness against both internal and external threats.
Implications for India and the Broader Region
In response to this emerging China-Turkey-Pakistan alignment, India will need to reassess its security strategies. Regional diplomacy will also face heightened challenges as Pakistan deepens its international defense partnerships.
Turkey’s growing involvement in South Asia risks further militarizing and polarizing an already volatile region, complicating efforts toward long-term peace and stability.