Beijing has handed over the third Hangor-class submarine to Pakistan, a component of the eight advanced submarines being supplied. This action is a facet of China’s strategy to bolster Pakistan’s naval capabilities, consequently supporting its expanding footprint within the Indian Ocean. The Global Times reported that the third submarine’s launch ceremony occurred in Wuhan, China.
The delivery of the second submarine occurred in March, and it complements the four modern naval combat vessels provided by China in recent years. This reinforcement of Pakistan’s naval power occurs concurrently with the expansion of the Chinese navy in the Arabian Sea. China’s activities in the Arabian Sea include developing the Gwadar port in Balochistan and further strategic development within the Indian Ocean.