China’s provision of a third Hangor-class submarine to Pakistan underscores the strengthening military ties between the two nations. This initiative is aimed at augmenting Pakistan’s naval capabilities, thereby supporting its strategic goals in the Indian Ocean. The launch of the third submarine was marked by a ceremony in Wuhan, as reported by the Global Times.
The delivery of this submarine follows the handover of the second submarine in March, supplementing the four naval combat vessels China has provided. This support for Pakistan’s naval power aligns with the growing presence of the Chinese navy in the Arabian Sea, particularly the development of the Gwadar port in Balochistan. This is part of a larger strategic initiative in the Indian Ocean.