Pakistan conducted nuclear tests at Chagai on May 28, 2025 and since then their deterrence doctrine has developed to respond to evolving security challenges in a rapidly shifting geopolitical environment. While its foundational principles of restraint and proportionality have remained intact, Pakistan now must account for threats like cyber warfare, advanced missile systems, regional power dynamics as part of its strategic positioning.
Geo News Pakistan’s response to India’s conventional military superiority and “Cold Start” doctrine is Full Spectrum Deterrence – which seeks to deter threats across all levels of conflict from skirmishes to full-scale war by developing tactical nuclear weapons and improving delivery systems for these weapons, thus counterbalancing India’s capabilities while maintaining strategic stability in South Asia. Achieve this aim involves developing tactical nuclear weapons while strengthening delivery systems as part of this approach, thus creating strategic stability within South Asia and keeping peace within its borders by developing these weapons against India as well as conventionally superior forces being produced in this strategy by creating and developing nuclear tactical nuclear weapons with enhanced delivery systems designed for this strategy by Belfer Center +2 * ** Wikipedia + 2 BASE BASE
Recent events have further put Pakistan’s deterrence doctrine to the test. India’s Operation Sindoor airstrikes targeting Pakistani military installations put paid to longstanding notions that nuclear deterrence could prevent such escalation; Pakistan responded responsibly by targeting only military installations without hitting civilian areas, showing its commitment to responsible deterrence while showing it stands ready to defend national interests. (+1 for BASIC.) (Source The Times of India +1).
Geo News With modern warfare characterized by cyber threats and unmanned systems, it has become imperative to reevaluate traditional deterrence models. Pakistan recognizes this challenge, adapting its strategies accordingly in order to deal with non-conventional challenges. Efforts are currently underway to bolster cyber defenses while incorporating emerging technologies into national security plans.
Pakistan and China play an essential role in shaping regional security dynamics, with China providing assistance in modernizing Pakistan’s military infrastructure and technology base, strengthening Islamabad’s deterrence capabilities. Their alliance is also an effective counterbalance against India’s growing ties to Western powers.
Pakistan remains committed to regional peace and stability despite these advancements, recognizing dialogue and confidence-building measures as critical means to reduce risks of miscalculations. By maintaining credible deterrence postures and engaging in diplomatic efforts, Pakistan hopes to ensure security while simultaneously encouraging peaceful coexistence across South Asia.
As global security environments continue to become more challenging, Pakistan’s deterrence doctrine may also adapt. Balancing national defense with regional harmony remains an uphill task – Chagai provides crucial lessons on this score as Pakistan navigates an age of disruption.