Our Bureau
New Delhi
India on Tuesday asserted that it will take “whatever is necessary” to safeguard its national interests after reports that Pakistan has deployed around 250 Chinese-made SH-15 self-propelled howitzers along sectors facing the Indian border, signalling a fresh phase of military posturing in the region.
Responding to questions on the reported deployment, government sources maintained that India remains fully prepared to counter any emerging security challenge and is simultaneously strengthening its own defence capabilities. Officials stressed that national security interests would remain paramount and that the armed forces continue to closely monitor developments along the border.
The SH-15 is a 155mm, 52-calibre wheeled self-propelled artillery system manufactured by China’s Norinco Corporation, where it is designated as the PCL-181. Designed for rapid mobility and long-range precision strikes, the platform is considered a significant upgrade to Pakistan’s conventional artillery capabilities. Reports indicate the systems have been deployed across multiple formations facing India, enhancing Pakistan’s long-range firepower.
Defence analysts view the deployment as part of Pakistan’s ongoing military modernisation with Chinese support. The induction of advanced artillery systems comes amid continued strategic cooperation between Beijing and Islamabad and reflects Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen conventional deterrence along its eastern front.
India, meanwhile, has been pursuing its own artillery modernisation programme to maintain operational readiness and strategic balance. The latest military developments are expected to keep security agencies on heightened alert, even as New Delhi reiterated that it remains committed to protecting its sovereignty while responding decisively to any threat against the country’s national interests.