India-Pakistan rivalry echoes in Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict as military hardware flows

In the ongoing conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, India and Pakistan find themselves indirectly embroiled as they back opposing sides. Reports reveal that Pakistan-made KRL-122 Ghazab 122 mm multiple rocket launcher systems have been deployed by Azerbaijan, while India has supplied Armenia with its Pinaka Multiple Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) systems.

This conflict echoes the enduring India-Pakistan rivalry, with both nations supporting their allies in the South Caucasus. The Nagorno-Karabakh dispute has resurged, driven by territorial and ethnic tensions, causing international concern and underscoring the complex geopolitics in the region.

Azerbaijan deploys Pakistan-made Rocket Launchers

As the renewed hostilities in Nagorno-Karabakh unfold, Azerbaijan has reportedly fielded Pakistan-manufactured KRL-122 Ghazab 122 mm multiple rocket launcher systems, a move that showcases the dynamics of the India-Pakistan rivalry playing out in conflicts beyond their borders. These rocket launchers, developed by Pakistan's Kahuta Research Laboratories, possess the ability to launch various rockets, including the "Yarmuk" rocket produced by Pakistan Ordnance Factories, with a maximum range of over 40 km after upgrades.

India, on the other hand, has been actively supporting Armenia with military hardware, including the Pinaka Multiple Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) systems. India's assistance comes in response to Armenia's request for weaponry to bolster its defence capabilities. The Pinaka MBRLs are known for their mobility and "shoot and scoot" capability, allowing them to quickly fire and relocate, essential in countering drone threats, which have become prevalent in modern conflicts. This support further deepens the geopolitical dimensions of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, with India backing Armenia, while Pakistan supports Azerbaijan.

The Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict's Impact on South Asian Geopolitics

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, marked by its protracted nature and complex historical roots, has significant repercussions for South Asian geopolitics. Pakistan's support for Azerbaijan aligns with its longstanding rivalry with India, mirroring their geopolitical contest on a global stage. Conversely, India's assistance to Armenia represents an opportunity for New Delhi to assert itself as a reliable arms supplier and strengthen its diplomatic ties.

Armenian soldiers in action during the Day of Intelligence troops (Image: AP)

Notably, the conflict highlights India's growing role as a provider of military equipment to its allies, filling gaps left by other major suppliers. This shift is particularly evident as India steps in to support Armenia amid Russia's focus on the Ukraine crisis, demonstrating India's willingness to diversify its international partnerships and strengthen its position as a regional power.

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict serves as a geopolitical arena where the India-Pakistan rivalry manifests indirectly. While Pakistan deploys its rocket launcher systems in support of Azerbaijan, India provides military hardware to Armenia, signalling their entanglement in distant conflicts with implications for regional dynamics and global diplomacy.