Today, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi said that they have kept an eye on China’s support for Pakistan’s naval expansion and India’s own modernization plans, including new submarines and Rafale jets. He said that they are closely monitoring extra-regional forces, including the PLA Navy, their warships and their research vessels too. He was himself surprised as to how Pakistan still had funds for its armed forces despite “begging” for international assistance.
The Admiral informed that China is helping Pakistan to boost its maritime powers. He added that the Pakistan Navy, aims to become a 50-ship Navy. Also, China is already equipped with modern weapons having the largest navy. He further said that India has a strategy to make sure that regional maritime security is maintained in addition to the country’s maritime interests. Speaking in the context of Pakistan expanding its military capabilities through major arms procurements from China, he said that they are monitoring everything.
Based on data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Pakistan’s imports of weapons rose by almost 43% during 2014–2018 and 2019–2023. Pakistan and China have announced several military development projects and acquisitions. Pakistan ranks at fifth in the world in importing weapons.
Admiral Tripathi also discussed the Navy’s modernization efforts, pointing out that 62 ships and one submarine are presently being constructed in India. Two SSNs (nuclear-powered submarines) have been approved by the government. He revealed that India is expected to finalize contracts for 26 naval variant Rafale fighter jets and three additional Scorpene-class submarines in the coming month. He said that they have redoubled efforts to include niche technologies into the force.