News Analysis: Value of defence spending proved

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s historic victory over India in the recent war has changed public perception of national defence and largely silenced long-standing debates over the country’s defence budget.

For decades, Pakistan’s military spending was viewed by critics as excessive, a burden on a struggling economy and a point of controversy in policy debates. However, the outstanding performance of Pakistan’s armed forces against India in the recent war has not only united the nation but also justified defence expenditure as a source of national pride rather than controversy. Pakistan’s military victory was beyond the expectations of its own citizens, it also surprised the global community but gave a serious psychological and strategic shock to India, despite its vast numerical and financial advantage. Operating on less than one-tenth of India’s defence budget, Pakistan’s forces outmaneuvered, outclassed, and outperformed their opponent -- proving that strategic capability, leadership, training, morale and unity can outweigh sheer numbers and spending. This victory has elevated Pakistan’s stature globally. The once not so respected green passport is now being viewed with a sense of pride not only by Pakistanis at home and abroad, but even by those who had written off the country as a failing state.

The 2025-26 defence budget proposed around 20pc increase, but it is no longer under the same critical scrutiny. Where there were once calls for cuts, there is now widespread recognition across political and public domains that Pakistan’s security must never be compromised. The nation has seen only a month back what a capable military can achieve. Many critics who previously coined terms like “an army with a country” now acknowledge the indispensable role of the armed forces in safeguarding not just territory, but also national dignity and international standing. The war has also served as a grim reminder of what happened to nations like Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, and Libya where inadequate defence mechanisms led to foreign invasions, instability and chaos.

However, this moment of victory must also serve as a call for improvement and responsibility. Increased defence spending must also meet the expectation of transparency, efficiency and proper utilisation. Both civilian and military leadership are now entrusted with ensuring that every rupee allocated to national defence strengthens the country’s operational readiness and technological edge.

At the same time, the government must not lose sight of the broader picture. Military success secures borders, but economic stability secures futures. It is important that this newfound national unity and morale be extended toward economic revival, institutional reform, and public welfare. A nation strong in defence must also be strong in progress and development.

This victory has done more than win a war. It has created an opportunity. It is the government’s foremost duty to capitalise on its dividends from improving human resource exports to promoting indigenous arms and ammunition sales in the global market. This national pride must now translate into a long-term strategic vision -- one that balances defence security with economic sustainability.