A Chinese shipyard has launched a second submarine for Pakistan, strengthening military ties. The Hangor class submarine is part of an eight-submarine deal, with the last four to be built locally in Karachi. China accounts for most of Pakistan’s military imports, especially amid technology restrictions from Europe.

A Chinese shipyard has successfully launched a second submariner for the Pakistan Navy, significantly bolstering the military partnership between China and Pakistan. This diesel-electric submarine, part of the Hangor class, was reported launched by Chinese state media from the China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation located in Wuhan along the Yangtze River.

Pakistan has engaged in a contract to acquire a total of eight submarines, with the first four being constructed in China and the remaining four to be produced locally at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works in Pakistan’s port city of Karachi. The Hangor class submarines are believed to be adapted from China’s 039A submarine, featuring a crew capacity of 38 plus provisions for eight special forces personnel, as well as armament capabilities including torpedoes and anti-ship missiles.

Historically, Pakistan has utilized submarines to counter India during their territorial conflicts. The absence of dual-use technology from European nations for diesel submarines has made China the preferred ally for Pakistan in terms of acquiring advanced military assets. A Swedish defense analyst has indicated that over the last five years, China has supplied more than 81% of Pakistan’s arms imports, which also encompasses collaborative projects like the Hangor submarine and the JF-17 fighter jet.

Conversely, diplomatic developments have emerged between China and India, who have committed to seeking resolutions for their prolonged border disputes in the Himalayas. This situation follows a tense military standoff that escalated in 2020, arising from a contentious history spanning several decades.

The completion of the second submarine for Pakistan by a Chinese shipyard underscores the deepening military collaboration between the two nations. It highlights Pakistan’s reliance on China for advanced military technology, particularly in the context of its historical rivalry with India. Furthermore, recent diplomatic engagements suggest ongoing efforts to resolve regional conflicts, notably between China and India.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com

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