China-Pakistan Submarine Deal Sparks Maritime Tensions: Why India Should Be Concerned

China-Pakistan Submarine Deal Sparks Maritime Tensions: China’s delivery of advanced Hangor-class submarines to Pakistan has raised concerns in India over shifting power dynamics in the Arabian Sea. Learn how this China-Pakistan naval alliance could challenge India’s maritime security.

China-Pakistan Naval Alliance Raises Alarms for India: China-Pakistan Submarine Deal

A significant defense partnership between China and Pakistan is making waves across the Indian Ocean region. The two nations are collaborating on an ambitious naval expansion — the Hangor-class submarine project — which experts believe could reshape the maritime balance of power in South Asia. This deepening cooperation is seen as part of China’s long-term strategy to extend its influence in the Arabian Sea and support Pakistan in countering India’s naval dominance.

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Pakistan’s Hangor-class submarine project, a cornerstone of its naval modernization drive, is progressing steadily and is expected to be completed by 2026. Pakistan Navy Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf confirmed that construction milestones are being achieved smoothly, marking a new era of cooperation between Beijing and Islamabad.

According to the Global Times, Admiral Ashraf described the recent launch of the second and third submarines in China as a “major leap forward” in China-Pakistan defense ties. These advanced submarines will significantly enhance Pakistan’s underwater warfare capabilities and surveillance reach.

The Eight-Submarine Deal: A Game-Changer in the Arabian Sea- China-Pakistan Submarine Deal

The roots of this deal date back to 2015, when Pakistan signed a landmark contract with China to purchase eight Hangor-class conventional submarines. Under the agreement, four submarines are being constructed in China, while the remaining four will be built at Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works under Chinese supervision — a move that will also boost Pakistan’s domestic shipbuilding expertise.
The timeline for delivery stretches from 2022 to 2028, with the first submarine launched in April 2024, followed by two more in 2025. Admiral Ashraf termed this program a “double success,” as it not only strengthens Pakistan’s naval deterrence but also enhances local defense production capabilities.
Defense analysts warn that once all eight submarines become operational, Pakistan will have a much stronger presence in the Arabian Sea, potentially posing a strategic challenge to India’s Western Naval Command.

India’s Response: Strengthening Maritime Security

India, which already operates some of the region’s most sophisticated submarines, such as the Scorpene-class INS Kalvari (S21), INS Khanderi (S22), INS Karanj (S23), and INS Vela (S24), is closely monitoring these developments. New Delhi is ramping up efforts to modernize its own naval assets, enhance anti-submarine warfare capabilities, and improve surveillance systems across key maritime zones.

Experts note that India’s maritime security strategy will now need to consider this new axis between Beijing and Islamabad. The increased submarine activity could threaten trade routes, oil supply lines, and overall security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Beyond Submarines: China’s Expanding Naval Footprint

The China-Pakistan naval partnership extends beyond submarines. Pakistan has also inducted Type 054A/P multi-mission frigates, built by China, into active service. These advanced warships are designed for anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine operations — giving Pakistan’s Navy a more versatile and powerful fleet.

Admiral Ashraf emphasized that these vessels have “enhanced the operational versatility” of the Pakistan Navy, making it more capable of conducting multi-domain missions across extended sea routes.

Strategic analysts believe this deepening defense partnership forms part of China’s broader “String of Pearls” strategy — aimed at establishing a network of military and commercial bases around India’s maritime neighborhood to encircle and limit India’s regional influence.

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Conclusion: A New Wave of Naval Rivalry

The China-Pakistan submarine deal is more than just a defense contract — it is a strategic statement. With Pakistan’s underwater capabilities set to expand and China’s presence in the Arabian Sea growing, India faces a complex maritime challenge that could redefine the security landscape of the Indian Ocean. As both nations strengthen their naval cooperation, India will likely accelerate its modernization efforts to maintain its dominance and safeguard its strategic interests in these contested waters.