Exclusive: China-Pakistan Naval Partnership Strengthens

Brotherly Naval Cooperation Marks a New Era

In a significant development underscoring the deep strategic ties between China and Pakistan, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Naval Staff of the Pakistan Navy, has announced that advanced submarines developed under a China-Pakistan cooperation project will soon bolster Pakistan's naval fleet. This announcement is set to redefine maritime power dynamics in the region, sparking discussions about its implications for India and other neighboring nations.

Strengthening Regional Maritime Security

The Pakistan Navy’s participation in multinational and bilateral exercises with the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy, such as the AMAN and Sea Guardian series, reflects an unwavering commitment to regional maritime security. Admiral Ashraf highlighted the upcoming AMAN-25 multinational exercise, scheduled for early February in Karachi. The event, which has previously seen the participation of over 50 nations, aims to enhance interoperability and counter maritime threats, including terrorism and organized crimes.

"AMAN exercises are a testament to our commitment to fostering cooperation and ensuring good order at sea. We expect a larger participation this year, showcasing a united resolve against emerging maritime challenges," Admiral Ashraf remarked.

China-Pakistan Naval Collaboration: A Strategic Partnership

China’s consistent participation in AMAN exercises underscores the strategic depth of the China-Pakistan naval alliance. Admiral Ashraf revealed that the PLA Navy’s participation in AMAN-25, along with the concurrent maiden AMAN Dialogue, will further solidify this collaboration. The dialogue aims to address key issues such as maritime security and the blue economy.

Past exercises like Sea Guardian-3, held in the Arabian Sea in 2023, involved advanced maneuvers, anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine drills. These exercises have strengthened the interoperability and operational capabilities of both navies.

“Our joint exercises reflect a shared commitment to addressing traditional and non-traditional threats in the Indian Ocean region. We anticipate expanding the scope of these drills in the future,” Admiral Ashraf stated.

Game-Changing Submarines and Frigates

One of the most significant achievements of the China-Pakistan naval partnership is the development of state-of-the-art military equipment. The Pakistan Navy has already integrated four advanced Type 054A/P guided missile frigates, equipped with cutting-edge weapons like CM-302 surface-to-surface missiles and LY-80 surface-to-air missiles. These frigates are now a mainstay of the naval fleet, significantly enhancing Pakistan’s warfighting and operational capabilities.

However, the spotlight now shifts to the Hangor-class submarines. Pakistan’s acquisition of eight submarines from China, equipped with the latest air-independent propulsion (AIP) systems, represents a major leap forward in its naval capabilities. These submarines, designed for enhanced stealth and firepower, are expected to join the fleet between 2022 and 2028. The first submarine was launched in China in 2024, with subsequent models being constructed in Pakistan to enhance local technical expertise.

“These submarines will significantly enhance our ability to execute a wide range of operations, ensuring dominance in regional waters,” Admiral Ashraf confirmed.

Operational Successes and Regional Implications

Recent operations by the Pakistan Navy, such as Operation Himalayan Spirit in 2024, have demonstrated its growing capabilities. During this operation, the PNS Zulfiquar seized 1.3 tons of narcotics, showcasing its effectiveness in combating maritime crimes.

The strategic alignment between China and Pakistan has raised concerns in New Delhi, especially given India’s naval expansion, including the commissioning of its first domestically built aircraft carrier in 2022. When asked about the regional maritime balance, Admiral Ashraf emphasized that the Pakistan Navy remains a balanced force capable of responding to a full spectrum of conflicts. While Pakistan does not currently have plans to operate an aircraft carrier, its focus remains on enhancing its existing capabilities.

Future Endeavors in Naval Cooperation

Looking ahead, the China-Pakistan naval partnership is poised to explore new domains, including artificial intelligence, robotics, cyber security, and space technology. Admiral Ashraf’s visit to Wuhan in 2024, where he attended the launching ceremony of the first Hangor-class submarine, reflects the shared vision of long-term collaboration.

“With the PLA Navy’s professionalism and our mutual focus on innovation, our partnership is set to expand further. The possibilities for future cooperation are limitless,” Admiral Ashraf noted.

Shockwaves for India

India’s naval modernization efforts, while significant, face stiff competition from the rapidly advancing Pakistan-China alliance. The induction of Hangor-class submarines and Type 054A/P frigates into Pakistan’s fleet not only boosts its defensive capabilities but also challenges India’s maritime dominance in the region. The strategic implications for India’s security apparatus are immense, as it faces an increasingly formidable adversary in regional waters.

Source: Global Times. "Exclusive: Submarines from China-Pakistan cooperation project to join Pakistan Navy fleet soon, says Pakistani naval chief." Read the original article.