Indian Navy Chief Warns of Pakistan's Growing Naval Capabilities Despite Economic Challenges, Driven by Chinese Support

As India commemorates Navy Day on December 4th, marking a significant naval victory over Pakistan in 1971, the Indian Navy Chief, Admiral Dinesh Tripathi, has expressed concern over Pakistan's expanding naval capabilities. He acknowledged the "surprising" modernization efforts of the Pakistan Navy, driven largely by Chinese support, and highlighted the need for India to adapt its operational plans to address this evolving maritime landscape.

Admiral Tripathi's remarks come as Pakistan pursues an ambitious plan to become a 50-ship strong navy within the next decade, focusing on modern surface warships and submarines. This expansion is fueled by collaborations with China and Turkey, raising concerns in India about the shifting balance of power in the region.

Pakistan's naval modernization is evident in its acquisition of advanced submarines, frigates, and corvettes, as well as the development of indigenous capabilities and missile technology. Key acquisitions include:

• Eight Type 039B-based Hangor II submarines from China, with four to be built in Pakistan. These submarines feature Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems and can launch nuclear-capable Babur-3 cruise missiles.
• Four Type 054A/P frigates from China, equipped with advanced radar and weapon systems.
• Four Babur-class corvettes from Turkey, based on the MILGEM Ada-class design.
• Development of the hypersonic P282 ship-launched anti-ship/land-attack ballistic missile (SLBM), potentially incorporating Chinese technology.

Pakistan is also upgrading its existing fleet and investing in indigenous design and development capabilities through its Naval Research and Development Institute.

This modernization drive, initiated in 2015, has significantly enhanced the Pakistan Navy's capabilities, raising concerns in India about its implications for regional security. Experts believe that China is actively supporting Pakistan's naval expansion to keep India engaged and potentially challenge its dominance in the Indian Ocean.

Admiral Tripathi emphasized the need for the Indian Navy to adapt its operational plans to address these evolving challenges. India's response will likely involve continued investments in its own naval modernization, including the development of indigenous platforms, acquisition of advanced technologies, and strengthening its operational capabilities.