Pakistan’s Hangor-Class Submarines: A Game Changer in Naval Dynamics
In recent naval developments, Pakistan’s Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, announced that the Hangor-class submarines, built in collaboration with China, are set to join the Pakistan Navy next year. This significant advancement raises intriguing questions about the balance of naval power in the Indian Ocean, particularly regarding India’s dominance in the region.
The Hangor-class submarines are conventionally powered attack vessels designed to enhance Pakistan’s military capabilities. Admiral Ashraf emphasized that these submarines reflect a close Sino-Pakistani partnership in defense technology and aim to foster self-reliance through skill development. With naval systems becoming increasingly critical in a region fraught with geopolitical tension, the implications of this development are noteworthy.
Analysts are pointing out that the submarines could significantly challenge India’s naval strategy in the northern Arabian Sea. Experts like Liselotte Odgaard from the Hudson Institute argue that the submarines bolster Pakistan’s anti-access and area-denial capabilities. This not only complicates India’s maritime strategy but may also aid in China’s broader ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly regarding maritime routes that include the strategic Gwadar port.
Currently, Pakistan operates five conventional submarines imported from France, while India boasts a fleet that includes nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines. These capabilities give India an edge in terms of endurance and operational range. However, the introduction of the Hangor-class submarines into Pakistan’s arsenal could raise the stakes significantly.
One of the standout features of the Hangor-class submarines is their air-independent propulsion system, allowing them to remain submerged for extended periods. This capability is crucial for stealth operations, which can enhance Pakistan’s deterrent posture. The submarines are equipped to launch both anti-ship and cruise missiles, potentially giving rise to a second-strike nuclear capability.
Despite the excitement surrounding these advancements, caution is warranted. The new CHD620 engine, developed to bypass Western technological limitations, has yet to be validated in real-world conditions. While lower costs make the Hangor-class submarines appealing, their noise and stealth performance remain to be fully assessed.
In all, the development and impending deployment of the Hangor-class submarines underscore the evolving dynamics of naval power in the Indian Ocean. As Pakistan enhances its maritime capabilities, the balance of power could shift, prompting India to reconsider its strategies. This ongoing naval arms race highlights the complex relationship between national security and technological advancement.
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