Certain reports also point to the likely induction of the supersonic Tu-22/55 strategic Russian bomber to the PLAAF in a tit for tat buy if the IAF leases the same within the next decade but is unlikely as the option of an indigenous bomber (H-6) with ALCMs appeals more to the PLAAF. [...] The PLAAF is on the path to incorporate advanced Russian fighters like Su-30 variants in the top of the high technology spectrum and J-10s in the low end of the spectrum. [...] THE PRESENT NUMBER GAME In a two front scenario in the event of confrontation with Pakistan, the force ratio is likely to decrease for the IAF in the West, much to Pakistan’s advantage. [...] 4, WINTER 2012 (October-December) 146 VIKRAM MUNSHI enjoys in the West.34Depending on the extent of The IAF may threat facing the IAF in the East; if the need arises have to confront to augment greater numbers in the face of higher two adversaries, PLAAF aircraft, the resultant combat strength Pakistan and of the IAF could then swing the force balance in China, who will PAF’s favour, completely to. [...] Not only is the IAF poised to lose forever its traditional numerical superiority in advanced combat aircraft, this segment of the PLAAF alone is likely to exceed the size of the entire IAF by 2020.37 When the larger transformation of the Chinese military is taken into account, the situation becomes serious indeed.
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- 26
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- India
