Air power has been the primary tool for limited wars in the India-Pakistan dyad ever since 1998, when the two countries, in tandem, opted to become declared nuclear states. Especially during conflicts in 2019 and 2025, air power emerged as a preferred kinetic application choice for India, which probably is the key reason for persistent escalation in the India-Pakistan scenario.

Having demonstrated the capacity to deliver a “quid-pro-quo-plus” response through prudent employment of Pakistan Air Force (PAF), Pakistan faces a paradox of restraint. Measured response exercising restraint in 2019 as well as 2025 for keeping escalation under control is becoming escalatory in itself.

Pakistan’s endeavours for escalation control are incentivising a coercive attitude, as India tests the limits of Pakistan’s restraint, turning PAF’s prudence into escalation. Explaining why the Indian methodology is likely to persist for the foreseeable future, the article examines the fundamental reason for persistent escalation of the conflict and the restraint-escalation paradox facing Pakistan.

Indian preference for air power stems from the fact that it offers tight escalation control while simultaneously dominating the media narrative. Large-scale land-force employment is sluggish, especially given the geography of India-Pakistan borders, highly visible, and difficult to reverse once initiated; hence, it offers relatively much........

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