As India steps up pressure, internal reports reveal Pakistan’s military is critically under-equipped for prolonged conflict

In a startling revelation that underscores Pakistan’s fragile military preparedness, intelligence sources have disclosed that the country has only four days' worth of ammunition available for full-scale combat. As tensions with India rise following the Pahalgam terrorist attack, this critical shortage could prove catastrophic for Pakistan in the event of a sustained conflict.

Despite aggressive posturing from Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, recent internal assessments have painted a bleak picture of the nation’s actual defense capability. With limited stockpiles and an economy in shambles, Pakistan may be forced to its knees should hostilities with India intensify.

Only 96 Hours of Firepower Remain

According to media reports and intelligence assessments, Pakistan’s military currently holds enough ammunition to engage in high-intensity warfare for just 96 hours. This includes critical shortages in artillery shells and rocket systems. If a full-scale conflict were to erupt, Pakistan's military would struggle to maintain offensive or even defensive operations beyond four days.

The main culprit behind this alarming deficit? Large-scale arms exports. In early 2023, Pakistan reportedly shipped significant quantities of its own stockpile to support foreign conflicts. According to credible sources, between February and March 2023, Pakistan exported over 42,000 BM-21 (122mm) rockets and more than 60,000 155mm howitzer shells to Ukraine and Israel, significantly depleting its own reserves.

Mounting Challenges for Pakistan's Defense Sector

This ammunition crisis has been compounded by outdated manufacturing infrastructure at Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF) and global disruptions in military supply chains. As Pakistan grapples with high inflation, rising external debt, and critically low foreign reserves, the economic burden is directly impacting its ability to sustain military operations.

To manage the crisis, Pakistan’s armed forces have reportedly had to suspend large-scale military exercises and impose cuts on rations and other operational resources. The country’s military leadership is now under significant pressure, with internal meetings reflecting a growing sense of urgency.