Pakistan is preparing to induct its first Hangor-class submarine, the Chinese-built vessel that Islamabad believes will help it counter India’s naval superiority. Expected to enter service in 2026, this marks a major addition to Pakistan’s maritime arsenal and a deepening of its defence dependence on Beijing. Yet, behind the symbolism of “strategic parity” lies a troubling reality for the region -- Pakistan’s growing militarisation with Chinese aid directly threatens India’s interests in the Indian Ocean, but New Delhi is far from unprepared.

China’s underwater hand in Pakistan’s naval build-up

Under a $5 billion deal signed with China, Pakistan will receive eight Hangor-class diesel-electric submarines by 2028. Four are being built in China, and four more will be assembled at Karachi Sh

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