Poland-Martial Law in Action

December 26, 1981 oilers from Britain and the Soviet Union are being considered. While the earlier deals were explained as being part of the 'normal' process of modernisation through replacement, the latter ones, it is stated, have become necessary in the context of the US arms aid package to Pakistan. However, Indian defence purchases in terms of the volume, numbers and the delivery schedule are well ahead of those made and "being made by Pakistan, These purchases are entirely in tune with India's own regional ambitions and, consistent with that, have also of late become more diversified than, earlier. The submarine deal, for instance, replaces the older submarines bought from the Soviet Union and, moreover, follows the rejection of a Soviet offer In fact defence purchases are being increasingly "balanced' with both western and Soviet arms, in view of the size of the purchase, the credit arrangement involved and the necessity to ensure guaranteed supply of spares.