For weeks, flocks of military helicopters and fast-flying fighter jets have crisscrossed Islamabad's skies in preparation for the annual demonstration of military might on 23rd March, Pakistan Day. These are hard economic times and so, curious about the cost, I consulted ChatGPT. Operating an attack helicopter, she told me, can range from $3,851 to $20,642 per hour. Fighter jets show greater variation, with lighter models costing $4,500-$5,500 per hour and heavier ones reaching $20,000-$60,000. An aerial display, of course, is merely the tip of an iceberg; parades below cost much more.

Still, ignoring cost, many countries hold demonstrative displays. Some seek to project strength and warn adversaries. Parades can also showcase new weapons and technology. Others hope to boost national morale knowing such demonstrations can powerfully impact young minds. As tanks lumber by, the earth trembles at their power. When colored contrails emerge from a tight formation of jets streaking overhead, a collective gasp erupts followed by thunderous applause.

In Pakistan’s case which particular end do these displays of force serve? Who is the target audience?

Intoxicated by their victory over the United States, TTP's fighters brush off Pakistan as a mere midget destined to crumble. Will a handful of Cobra gunships circling Islamabad deter them?

The TTP couldn’t care less. Emboldened by the Taliban government in Kabul its barbaric rampage continues, slaughtering our soldiers and police daily. Driven by a warped ideology, it fights to transform Pakistan into an Islamic state mirroring Afghanistan's brutal theocracy. Intoxicated by their victory over the United States, TTP's fighters brush off Pakistan as a mere midget destined to crumble. Will a handful of Cobra gunships circling Islamabad deter them?

The Indians are also likely to........

© The Friday Times