China continues to strengthen military-technical cooperation with Pakistan by delivering a second Hangor-class submarine under a $5 billion contract providing for the transfer of eight such vessels. This move not only modernizes Islamabad's naval forces, but also strengthens Beijing's position in the Indian Ocean, where China seeks to dominate.
Submarines as a key element
Hangor-class submarines equipped with modern missile systems are capable of striking at a considerable distance, which significantly changes the balance of power in the region. Pakistan, which has historically been inferior to India in military capabilities, is now receiving technologies capable of closing this gap. China has already supplied Pakistan with JF-17 fighter jets and ballistic missiles, and the new submarines will complement the arsenal, in which 75% of the country's tank forces are Chinese-made.
The geopolitical context: the India-Pakistan-China triangle
The strategic partnership between Pakistan and China is aimed at counterbalancing India, with which both countries have difficult relations. Beijing supports Islamabad on Kashmir issues, and New Delhi, in turn, is strengthening ties with the United States and Japan. Chinese investments in the Pakistani army, including missile technology, are increasing tensions in the region, where the risk of conflict escalation remains high.
The role of the United States and the future of the arms race
Despite Pakistan's cooperation with the United States in the fight against terrorism, Islamabad remains committed to rapprochement with China. This raises questions about the balance of power in South Asia, where India, with its own nuclear triad, sees Pakistan's strengthening as a threat to its security. Experts point out that further Chinese arms shipments could trigger a new phase of the arms race, shifting the focus towards high-tech systems.
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