Is India fully prepared to defend against a potential nuclear strike from Pakistan?

As military activity intensifies along the India-Pakistan border, signs of a potential war are growing stronger. Pakistan, while continuing unprovoked shelling at the border, has issued open threats of war and even hinted at using nuclear weapons against India.

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This has led to a pressing question: if a fifth war breaks out and Pakistan resorts to a nuclear strike, is India prepared?

Experts affirm that India is fully equipped to defend against any such attack. The country has a multi-layered missile defense system designed to intercept and neutralize incoming threats at various stages.

First Stage: The Prithvi Air Defence (PAD) system can intercept and destroy ballistic missiles in the outer atmosphere. It is India's first line of defense against high-altitude threats.

Second Stage: The Advanced Air Defence (AAD) system, developed indigenously, can detect and destroy missiles that manage to penetrate the first layer. Additionally, the Akash missile system can target threats within a 250 km range.

Third Stage: India’s Russian-made S-400 Triumf air defense system can detect and neutralize both ballistic and cruise missiles, offering an added shield.

India also has powerful offensive capabilities. In case of a Pakistani nuclear strike, India can respond instantly with its Rafale fighter jets and BrahMos missiles. Military experts believe even a single Pakistani nuclear attack would invite total retaliation, potentially wiping out Pakistan. India also monitors Pakistan through satellite surveillance, ensuring constant vigilance.