China Moves In Closer With Pakistan In Beefed Up Naval Capabilities In The Indian Ocean

The growing closeness between China and Pakistan is a double whammy for India



In a double-handed strategy, China has delivered the PNS Tughril to Pakistan in a commissioning ceremony in Shanghai, confirmed reports have said.  Said to be one of the largest and most advanced warships to be delivered to Pakistan, China has done so keeping its focus clearly on its biggest arch enemy at the moment, India.

The dual strategy is to strengthen its naval presence with Pakistan on its side in the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean, all put together. The one-of-a-kind ship has been designed and built by China State Shipbuilding Corporation Limited (CSSC).

Taking the delivery of the frigate, the Pakistani Ambassador to China, Moin ul Haque said that this only creates a good balance in the Indian Ocean.

He further added that the Tughril-class frigates will strengthen Pakistan Navy's capabilities to respond to maritime challenges to ensure seaward defence, maintain peace, stability and balance of power in the Indian Ocean region.

The PNS Tughril is the first hull of four Type 054 frigates being constructed for the Pakistan Navy and the vessel is a technologically advanced and highly capable platform with enormous surface-to-surface, surface-to-air and underwater firepower, besides extensive surveillance potentials, the daily quoted a Pakistan Navy's statement.

With the mind to strengthen its power moving from land, China has focused in India’s backyard- the Indian Ocean. Using Pakistan as its alley, China has shared all-weather strategic ties with Pakistan and over the years, has emerged as the biggest weapons supplier for the Pakistani military. Besides the advanced naval ships, China also partners with the Pakistan Air Force to build JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft.

China is also providing Pakistan with eight state-of-the-art submarines till February 2021. 

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