General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, on Saturday that Pakistan’s military capabilities pose significant challenges as it "remains a threat to us."
He said India’s defence resources are capable of “taking care of any threat” particularly in disputed northern borders.
He said this while responding to a question relating to India's security challenges in the 21st century.
"I believe that, when it comes to the armed forces, the most significant challenges are external. And they are of serious significance.
However, external challenges may also unify a nation. "We've seen it in Kargil and Galwan," General Chauhan added.
"Our immediate military threat is China's rising and the unresolved border issue. We have two antagonistic neighbours.
Both claim that their friendship is higher than the Himalayas and deeper than the seas. "And they are both nuclear-capable," he said.
Hinting at a possible two-front war, he said Indian armed forces are well aware of these threats, adding
"What is uncertain, and what poses the greatest threat to us, is how war will evolve in the future.
As a result, we will need to introduce new weapon systems, technology, and tactics, as well as adapt our strategies. "And most likely organisational systems," said Gen Chauhan.
He also pointed out that it's not about when the war arises but rather how a particular confrontation evolves with the hostile neighbours.
Responding to a question on Pakistan, he said "Pakistan may have been in economic upheaval and politically unpredictable, but they now have a functional government.
"Pakistan's armed forces will continue to pose a threat, as they have retained their capabilities." Yes, they may have difficulties in fighting a protracted war due to their current economic situation. "But they continue to pose a threat to us," he said.
"We have resources to take care of our borders, especially disputed borders in the north very well," he added.
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