*Islamabad/New Delhi (Web Desk):* Pakistan’s use of the advancedChinese-made *PL-15 long-range air-to-air missile* against Indian fighterjets fired from nearly *100 miles away*—has sent shockwaves through theglobal defense community. The incident has not only rattled the regionalbalance of power but also spurred the *United States* to fast-track itsnext-generation *AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM)* program,according to *Bloomberg*.Game-Changer in South Asian Skies
Defense analysts describe the PL-15 strike as a “turning point” in modernaerial warfare. The missile, with an estimated range of *200 km*,outclasses most existing Western counterparts, allowing Pakistani jets totarget adversaries from beyond visual range (BVR) with unprecedentedprecision.
Military sources suggest the strike underscored a new era of *long-rangemissile dominance*, forcing India to reconsider its aerial tactics anddefense procurement strategies.US Responds with AIM-260
The Pentagon, closely monitoring the event, has reportedly *accelerateddeployment* of the AIM-260 missile—intended to replace the aging AIM-120AMRAAM system. The AIM-260 promises superior range and advancedcountermeasures, aiming to restore America’s edge in aerial combat andreassure allies concerned about the rise of Chinese and Russian missiletechnology.Regional & Global Implications
Experts warn the PL-15’s combat use marks a strategic milestone:
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*For Pakistan:* It strengthens deterrence against Indian aerial superiority. –
*For India:* It raises urgent questions over the survivability of its existing fighter fleet. –
*For the US & NATO:* It highlights the need to counter rapidly advancing Chinese missile technology.
As South Asia becomes a *testing ground for next-gen air combat*, the worldis witnessing a renewed arms race in missile technology, with rippleeffects stretching from Washington to Beijing.