Image Credit: X account @adgpi
Indian Army Recalls U.S. Arms Supply to Pakistan
On August 5, 2025, the Indian Army’s Eastern Command shared a historic reminder that the United States had supplied over $2 billion worth of military equipment to Pakistan between 1954 and 1971. The message came through a social media post featuring a 1971 newspaper clipping under the banner “This Day That Year – 05 Aug 1971.”
Highlighting Cold War Military Alignments
The post revisits a period when Pakistan was a key U.S. ally during the Cold War. The arms shipments included tanks, aircraft, and ammunition, delivered across several years leading up to the 1971 India-Pakistan war. The post did not mention any present-day policy but served to recall a time when India’s strategic challenges were partly fueled by American support to its western neighbor.
Current Strain in India-U.S. Relations
The timing of the post is significant. India-U.S. ties have recently seen turbulence over trade duties and India’s continued oil trade with Russia. The United States has imposed a 25% tariff on some Indian exports, and at the same time, has increased its diplomatic engagement with Pakistan. These developments have raised concerns in India’s strategic circles.
Army’s Post Seen as Symbolic Message
While the Indian Army has not issued any political statement, the throwback post is being interpreted as a subtle reminder of past U.S. decisions that impacted India’s national security. It also reflects broader apprehensions within India about shifting alignments and historical patterns that may repeat.
Strategic Autonomy Remains India’s Focus
As tensions simmer, India continues to assert its strategic autonomy and resist pressure to sever ties with longstanding partners like Russia. The Army’s reminder underscores the need to assess current global partnerships with an understanding of historical context.
