HYBRID WARFARE AND PAKISTAN: IMPLICATIONS AND RESPONSE STRATEGY

Abstract

Hybrid warfare refers to the use of a combination of conventional and unconventional tactics, such as cyber-attacks, information warfare, proxy warfare to achieve strategic objectives. It involves a blend of military, political, economic, and informational means to destabilize and weaken an adversary. In this context, Pakistan is facing the threat of hybrid war. In order to understand the fifth generation warfare trends and implications for Pakistan, qualitative research design was employed. Particularly, this research aims to understand the strategies employed and their impact. Additionally, it explores India’s defense strategies and technological advancements to gain insights into their approach to hybrid warfare. By employing this multi-faceted research methodology, the study aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of hybrid warfare between India and Pakistan. However, the study found that the all generations of warfare are focusing on two major areas i.e. targeting certain type of ideology and developing modern technology and warfare equipment's. Furthermore, the study concluded that Pakistan is currently facing higher level of fifth generation warfare from India mainly in four major domains i.e. conventional war, diplomatic challenges, misinformation and economic suppression. The findings of the current study are of prime importance for framing a constructive policy to counter the fifth generation warfare threats.