China-Pakistan Nexus in Military Context

The relationship between China and Pakistan has evolved into a complex military partnership, particularly highlighted during Operation Sindoor. 

Historical Context and Recent Developments

• In past conflicts, such as the 1965 and 1971 wars and the Kargil operations in 1999, China provided diplomatic and limited military support to Pakistan. However, during Operation Sindoor, China's involvement was more pronounced, leveraging its robust defense capabilities.
• China refrained from condemning the Pahalgam terrorist attack promptly, aligning with Pakistan's narrative and calling for a "quick and fair investigation."
• China, along with Pakistan, influenced the United Nations Security Council press statement on the Pahalgam attack, removing direct references to the responsible group.

Information Warfare and Media Influence

• Chinese media actively shaped public perception, amplifying Pakistan's propaganda and creating narratives that portrayed India's military actions as disproportionate.
• There were concerns from Chinese experts about the potential for escalation into a nuclear conflict, advocating for international mediation.

Military Collaboration and Implications

• China's military support during the conflict included the provision of advanced systems like J-10C fighters and PL-15 missiles, enhancing Pakistan's operational capabilities.
• The interoperability between Chinese and Pakistani forces was evident through joint exercises, like the Shaheen series, and the use of Chinese ISR systems for real-time data and surveillance.
• China's BeiDou satellite navigation system was integrated into Pakistan's battlefield operations, further demonstrating the depth of military collaboration.

Strategic and Geopolitical Implications

• China's involvement has complicated India's deterrence framework, allowing China to test India's red lines without direct military engagement.
• India is experiencing a "new normal," where conventional operations against Pakistan are feasible despite a nuclear overhang.
• India faces the challenge of maintaining capabilities on both its borders with China and Pakistan, necessitating sustained deterrence and strategic planning.

Recommendations for India's Strategy

• India must reassess its diplomatic stance towards China, addressing the strategic collusion with Pakistan in battlefield conditions.
• Expanding conventional capabilities, including network-centric warfare and ISR capabilities, is crucial to countering the evolving threat.
• India should explore alternative retaliatory actions to avoid predictable responses that could be exploited by China and Pakistan.

Conclusion

Operation Sindoor serves as a critical case study for India to rethink its defense posture and strategic planning in response to the China-Pakistan nexus. The integration of this reality into India's strategic framework is necessary to prepare for future challenges across an increasingly contested battlespace.