India has said it is fully prepared as Pakistan begins receiving new submarines from China, with the Indian Navy closely tracking every development and staying ready to respond if needed. Officials confirmed that India is watching the rising submarine tensions in the region and remains confident in its capabilities, especially as Pakistan’s growing fleet of advanced Chinese submarines draws increased attention from both sides.
Pakistan’s Submarine Boost With China Amid Submarine Tensions
Pakistan is strengthening its navy through an important submarine deal with China. Under this $5 billion agreement, Pakistan will receive eight Hangor-class diesel-electric submarines. China will build four submarines, and Pakistan will assemble the remaining four. This approach aims not only to boost Pakistan’s fleet but also to help the country develop greater capability in building such vessels in the future.
Pakistan launched the first submarine in the program in April 2024, and it expects to launch two more this year. China and Pakistan plan to deliver all eight submarines between 2022 and 2028. These submarines move quietly underwater, which allows them to conduct patrols, gather intelligence, and protect coastlines effectively.
Pakistan’s Naval Chief said the induction of these submarines is on schedule and described the recent launches as a major step in cooperation with China. Pakistan believes the new submarines will strengthen its navy after earlier concerns during tense periods with India.
China remains Pakistan’s main defence supplier, providing over 60 percent of its weapon imports in recent years and supporting major projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. This expanding partnership has drawn regional attention as the new submarines add pressure and increase submarine tensions in the Indian Ocean.
India ‘Fully Prepared’ as Submarine Tensions Rise
Senior Indian naval officials said the Navy closely tracks every development and stays prepared for any situation linked to rising submarine tensions. They confirmed that India maintains strong operational readiness throughout the Indian Ocean.
The Vice Chief of the Navy said India is reviewing its tactics and force structure to stay ahead, and he emphasised a major focus on anti-submarine warfare. Officials noted that India clearly understands what capabilities it needs to counter Pakistan’s expanding submarine fleet.
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India has also strengthened surveillance under Operation Sindoor, actively tracking all vessels entering the Indian Ocean. The Navy currently deploys around 40 warships across the region and plans to increase this number to more than 50.
India already operates nuclear-powered submarines and several diesel-electric submarines developed with France, Germany, and Russia. These platforms help India secure its long coastline and protect key sea routes. As Pakistan inducts new submarines and submarine tensions rise, India continues to reinforce its own strength.
Navy leaders stressed that the force remains fully prepared and confident. They said India is not only monitoring the growing submarine tensions but also boosting its readiness at the same time.
Growing China–Pakistan Partnership Raises Attention
China and Pakistan have deepened their defence partnership over the past few years. In addition, this cooperation includes joint exercises, training programs, and the sharing of advanced military technology. The new submarines are a major part of this partnership and therefore play a key role in shaping the rising submarine tensions in South Asia.
Moreover, China is heavily invested in Pakistan’s infrastructure projects. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which links China’s Xinjiang region to Gwadar Port, gives China access to the Arabian Sea. As a result, China’s presence in the Indian Ocean has increased, which is an area of strategic importance for India.
Consequently, as Pakistan expands its submarine fleet with China’s help, regional submarine tensions have increased. India is closely studying how these changes may affect the balance of naval power. Officials in New Delhi have repeated that the Indian Navy is alert, ready, and capable of dealing with any development linked to these submarine tensions.
India’s position is clear: while Pakistan strengthens its fleet with Chinese submarines, the Indian Navy remains fully prepared and continues to maintain strong control over its maritime region.