Modern War #36: Cold Start – The Next India-Pakistan War is a strategic-level two-player wargame simulating a potential future conflict between two of South Asia’s most powerful rivals — India and Pakistan. Designed to be a fast-playing, high-tension modern conflict simulation, this game explores the political, military, and nuclear brinkmanship that could erupt should India decide to launch a decisive conventional campaign against Pakistan under its officially declared Cold Start military doctrine.

The term “Cold Start” refers to India’s strategy of rapid conventional warfare without nuclear escalation. The doctrine envisions Indian forces mobilising and attacking swiftly enough to achieve key territorial and strategic objectives before international diplomacy or nuclear threats can halt operations. In Cold Start, players are thrust into the role of supreme commanders — one commanding the Indian Armed Forces, seeking a bold, rapid victory; the other leading Pakistan’s military, aiming to counterattack, delay, and defend under immense political and military pressure.

This low-to-intermediate complexity game delivers a broad yet detailed strategic experience, offering a “commander’s-eye view” of modern warfare. The emphasis is on high-level decision-making, coordination of conventional forces, and timing of offensives, with a subtle layer of operational and tactical considerations that add depth without overwhelming play. The system models the challenges of logistics, intelligence, and national resolve while leaving room for sudden shifts caused by political events, limited wars, or potential nuclear escalation.

Cold Start can be completed in about two hours, making it a perfect blend of strategic depth and streamlined play. It’s also highly adaptable for solitaire play, allowing a single player to test different strategic approaches or simulate both sides of this volatile regional conflict. Players will find the balance between aggression and caution critical — as India’s push for a swift victory risks triggering nuclear deterrence, while Pakistan must use defensive strategy, mobility, and diplomacy to hold the line.

The 22” x 34” full-colour map represents the Indo-Pakistani theatre of operations, including key regions such as Punjab, Kashmir, Rajasthan, and Sindh. The 176 counters depict divisions, brigades, and support units from both armies, reflecting modern combined-arms capabilities including airpower, mechanised forces, and missile units. The streamlined yet realistic ruleset enables players to explore how strategy, timing, and escalation control define warfare in the nuclear age.

Components:

• One 22” x 34” full-colour strategic map
• 176 die-cut counters representing Indian and Pakistani formations
• Comprehensive rulebook with scenarios and optional rules
• Player aids and setup charts for quick reference

Scale and Play Details:
Players: 2 (adaptable for solitaire)
Level: Strategic
Play Time: Approx. 2 hours
Map Scale: Regional (South Asia Theatre)
Counters: 176 pieces

Modern War #36: Cold Start – The Next India-Pakistan War is a gripping simulation of 21st-century regional warfare, where conventional forces, politics, and nuclear deterrence intertwine. Players must weigh every decision carefully — from launching offensives to managing escalation — knowing that one miscalculation could plunge the subcontinent into catastrophe. Fast, engaging, and thought-provoking, this title is a must-have for fans of modern strategic wargaming.

Available now from Milsims Games — Australia’s trusted source for modern and historical wargames. Includes price-match guarantee and fast domestic shipping from Mont Albert, VIC.

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