War Thunder vs Real World: How India, China & Pakistan’s Air Forces Stack Up
War Thunder isn’t just a video game—it’s a full-scale military simulator that puts players inside the cockpits of iconic fighter jets and the controls of deadly tanks. But how well does it mirror the real-world strength and strategy of actual air forces? In this article, we compare the virtual might of War Thunder to the real-life air power of India, China, and Pakistan.
What Makes War Thunder Unique?
War Thunder stands out because of its extreme attention to detail and realism. It includes air, land, and sea combat with vehicles based on historical blueprints and real-world physics. Players experience everything from early World War II biplanes to cutting-edge fighter jets. With countries like China already represented in the game, and Indian and Pakistani aircraft being simulated through mods or community scenarios, War Thunder offers a great stage to compare digital combat with real-world defense power.
India’s Air Force in Reality and in War Thunder
India’s Air Force, also known as the Indian Air Force (IAF), is one of the most powerful in the world, ranked fourth globally. It has a fleet of over 1,700 aircraft, including the Russian-built Sukhoi Su-30MKI, MiG-29, and the French Rafale, which is considered one of the best 4.5 generation jets. India also takes pride in its indigenous aircraft like the HAL Tejas, a multirole light combat aircraft.
In War Thunder, Indian aircraft are not part of a separate tech tree yet, but their Russian-origin jets like the MiG-21 and MiG-29 can be used through the Soviet line. French aircraft like the Mirage and Rafale can also be experienced under the French tree. Though not officially in the game, Indian fans create custom missions and skins to represent IAF operations.
China’s Air Force and Its Digital Footprint
The People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is advancing rapidly in terms of modernization and quantity. With over 2,000 combat aircraft, China has invested heavily in stealth technology and multirole fighters like the J-10, J-16, and J-20. It also operates long-range bombers like the H-6K and shares development of the JF-17 Thunder with Pakistan.
In War Thunder, China has a dedicated tech tree featuring aircraft such as the J-7, Q-5, and imported or co-produced jets. While the ultra-modern J-20 isn’t yet available in the game, China’s in-game aviation presence is robust and growing with each update. It offers players a strong and diverse air lineup that reflects much of China’s real-world strength.
Pakistan’s Air Force: Real Power with Rising Influence
Pakistan’s Air Force (PAF) may be smaller in size compared to India or China, but it is considered highly professional and combat-ready. With around 800 aircraft, its backbone includes American-built F-16s, French-origin Mirage III and V, and the jointly developed JF-17 Thunder. The PAF also operates advanced early warning aircraft and combat drones.
As of now, War Thunder does not offer a dedicated Pakistani tech tree. However, community content creators and modders often simulate Pakistan Air Force scenarios using available jets like the F-16 or JF-17 (via mods). Popular scenarios include simulations of the 2019 Balakot airstrike and dogfights over the Line of Control.
War Thunder as a Training Ground?
While War Thunder can’t simulate every real-world element like high-G forces or pilot fatigue, it still provides an intense learning platform for aviation enthusiasts. It teaches air combat maneuvering, radar usage, missile systems, and situational awareness under pressure. Many veterans and aviation fans use it for both entertainment and unofficial training purposes.
For players in India, China, and Pakistan, the game offers a chance to experience what it’s like to fly the jets they see on the news. With custom missions, skins, and mods, users can recreate regional air battles and better understand the complexities of modern air warfare.
Community-Driven Scenarios and What’s Missing
War Thunder’s vibrant player community has filled many gaps the developers haven’t officially addressed. Missions such as India vs Pakistan air clashes, India-China border standoffs, and Pakistan’s anti-insurgency air ops have all been brought to life by fans using existing aircraft and creative mods.
However, there’s still no official inclusion of iconic aircraft like:
- HAL Tejas
- JF-17 Block III
- Rafale (in Indian livery)
- J-20 stealth fighter
As the game evolves, many hope that Gaijin Entertainment will introduce full tech trees for India and Pakistan—both of which have growing aviation industries and proud combat histories.
Final Thoughts
War Thunder is already a powerful tool for understanding air combat, but it becomes even more fascinating when you compare it to real-world forces. India, China, and Pakistan each bring unique strengths and challenges to the skies—and War Thunder lets you experience a version of that power from your own screen.
While it doesn’t fully represent every country just yet, the community’s dedication, combined with the game’s regular updates, makes it a realistic simulator for military aviation fans across South Asia.