Afghanistan vs Pakistan: How the two militaries compare amid ‘open war’ declaration

Pakistan and Afghanistan are locked in an escalating conflict following cross-border strikes. Pakistan’s defence minister declared an “open war,” citing the worst escalation since October. The military disparity is stark: Pakistan boasts a significantly larger, better-equipped force with advanced air power and a nuclear arsenal, while Afghanistan’s capabilities have declined, highlighting a vast imbalance in manpower, firepower, and defence spending.