PAKISTAN'S STRATEGIC CULTURE: EFFECTS ON THREAT PERCEPTION AND RESPONSE

Abstract

The study explores the historical development and current dynamics of Pakistan's strategic culture using historical research, case studies, and content analysis. Key influences include the partition of British India, early state formation, military involvement, and relations with regional and global powers. The paper focuses on Pakistan's approach to maintaining a regional balance of power, deterrent capabilities, diplomacy, and domestic challenges.

Pakistan's strategic culture revolves around four core ideas and is heavily influenced by its relationship with India and the United States. The country seeks to hinder India's global progress and demands territorial fairness in Kashmir, leading to various conflicts and an ongoing proxy struggle. Pakistan has adopted strategies such as exploiting ideological resources in Afghanistan and using proxies under its nuclear shield.

The Pakistan Army holds significant power in national security, foreign policy, and related domestic policies. An analysis of military publications suggests that this strategic culture is enduring and unlikely to change in the near future.