Direct clashes and cross border fighting between Pakistan and Afghanistan overnight have escalated tensions between the two neighbouring states, amid reports of casualties on both sides and statements from Pakistani officials describing the situation as an “open war”.
The following comparison, based on data from the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London, indicates clear Pakistani military superiority in terms of arsenal and manpower compared with its Afghan counterpart, according to figures reported by Reuters.
Overview
Pakistan’s armed forces are characterised by an effective recruitment system and strong personnel retention, with significant reliance on defence equipment sourced from China, its strategic partner. Islamabad continues to invest in its nuclear programme while modernising its naval and air fleets.
In contrast, Afghanistan’s military capabilities have declined in comparison with neighbouring Pakistan. This includes limitations in operating and maintaining foreign equipment seized by the Taliban following their return to power in 2021. The absence of international recognition for the Taliban government has also negatively affected efforts to modernise the armed forces.
Manpower
Pakistan’s active defence personnel number approximately 660,000, distributed as follows:
Army: 560,000
Air Force: 70,000
Navy: 30,000
Afghanistan’s armed forces are estimated at around 172,000 active personnel, with announced plans to increase that figure to 200,000.
Combat Vehicles and Artillery
Pakistan possesses a large arsenal comprising more than 6,000 armoured combat vehicles and over 4,600 artillery pieces.
By comparison, Afghan forces operate armoured vehicles, main battle tanks from the Soviet era, and personnel carriers, though the exact numbers remain unclear. The same applies to its artillery, which includes at least three types, with no precise data available regarding the total size of its arsenal.
Air Power
Pakistan maintains a substantial air fleet consisting of 465 fighter aircraft and more than 260 helicopters, including multi role, attack, and transport variants.
Afghanistan, by contrast, does not possess fighter jets or a significant air force. Estimates suggest it has at least six aircraft, some dating back to the Soviet era, and 23 helicopters. However, the exact number of operational aircraft remains uncertain.
Nuclear Arsenal
Pakistan is a declared nuclear power, with its stockpile estimated at approximately 170 nuclear warheads. Afghanistan does not possess a nuclear arsenal.
