I wonder if it would just be better for Pakistan to design a new tank from scratch, using the lessons learned from 30 years of Al-Khalid development. This tank is not going to be up to par against the latest Indian T-90s or their recently inducted Apache anti-tank helicopters. Those Apache numbers are likely to increase in the future too. The issue I think is that Pakistan did not actually design the Al-Khalid and it is a Chinese tank that we slapped on different engine and optics etc on it to customize it for our needs. However, has Pakistan done any research into creating its own armor to use in tank production, or even ERA plates? Most unlikely that it has been the case.
In the ideal world, Al-Khalid would be relegated to the role now being fulfilled with light tanks such as T-59s, T-69s, and T-85. And a new frontline tank is co-developed and produced for the next 20 years.
One other thing that I feel will not hold true in the future is this emphasis on mobility over protection. It worked through the 80s & 90s and up even in the 2000s. However, times have changed and so has technology. Where before speed was a good option to deny enemy tanks and guns a chance to track and shoot at your successfully, there has been a sea change in technology which makes tracking a moving target very easy, while being on the move yourself. That is why every advanced country that also faces technologically advanced foes have opted to induct heavier, up-armored tanks.
India will take a substantial lead in arms from us sooner or later and I think it would behove us to plan for the future and not rely entirely on past laurels. The next tank battles might not go in our favor if we dont have the right tools.
