A significant 81 percent of Pakistan's military hardware originates from China, with Beijing reportedly using the country as a "live lab" to test its advanced military technology, according to Pakistan’s military. This statement was made by Lieutenant General Rahul R Singh, Deputy Chief of Army Staff for Capability Development and Sustenance, while discussing the recent cross-border tensions with Pakistan.

The escalation between India and Pakistan began after a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22, which resulted in 26 fatalities. India responded with Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror-related locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), leading to over 100 terrorist deaths. These groups included Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.

Lt Gen Singh highlighted the key lessons from Operation Sindoor, emphasizing the clear strategic messaging from Indian leadership and the meticulous planning and selection of targets, based on both technological and human intelligence. Of the 21 identified targets, nine were selected for engagement. The final decision to engage was made close to the operation’s conclusion.

The general also discussed the growing defense collaboration between China and Pakistan, noting that it has evolved beyond traditional arms transfers. He expressed concerns that China views its relationship with Pakistan as an opportunity to test cutting-edge military platforms and surveillance systems in real-world conflict scenarios. “Pakistan serves as a frontline ally, with China offering crucial support. A staggering 81 percent of Pakistan’s military equipment is of Chinese origin, allowing China to test its weapons against other technologies, effectively turning Pakistan into a live testing ground," Lt Gen Singh remarked. He also pointed out Turkey's contribution to Pakistan's defense.

China's role in Pakistan's defense is further highlighted by the country's significant arms exports. Since 2015, China has sold over $8.2 billion in military equipment to Pakistan, with nearly 63 percent of these exports going to Islamabad, making it China’s largest weapons client. This includes more than half of Pakistan's fighter aircraft fleet, such as the JF-17 Thunder (co-developed with China) and the advanced J-10C multirole fighter. Additionally, reports indicate that Pakistan is set to receive 40 Shenyang J-35 fifth-generation stealth fighters from China, advancing its stealth capabilities. A recent 2025 report from the US Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) states that India regards China as its primary adversary, while Pakistan is considered a secondary security concern to be managed.