[Aaron_A]

I don't think one can statistically determine which of the two armies is superior. Counting tanks and choppers and comparing the two is of no use. IMO the countries are very close - Pakistan is able to concentrate on one enemy and probably has some assurances from China of backup.

India otoh would look at Pakistan as one theater - China being another along with the Indians considering Bangladesh, Burma and their large coastline as being areas to protect. For these reasons I believe that the Indians have probably let the Pakis know that even though they have a 'no first use' policy with the nukes, they might have no choice but to use them pre-emptively if Pakistan-China start mobilising in concert. You'll note the recent change in Paki rhetoric to that of peace - with still a faint hint of nuclear blackmail thrown in for good measure.

If the USN wasn't in the Arabian sea, I would betcha that the Indian Navy would have moved out to blockade the Pakis.

[steamroller]

The Indian Navy is powerful,modern,and well-maintained.The Pakistani Navy is no match.The Indian Armed Forces in general are ighly professional and non-political unlike the Pakistani forces whose commanders are routinely involved in political intrigue.China is a question mark.As in the Middle East the sheer comparison of numbers is secondary to training,motivation,and most important,leadership.India has routinely overwhelmed Pakistan in their past confrontations.India is a fairly democratic,free state.Pakistan is not.I give the edge to India.