The Pakistan Navy's Submarine Fleet: Cause for Concern?
Recent satellite images have brought into focus the status of Pakistan's submarine fleet and have found that only two out of its submarines are in operation. This news has important consequences for the country's naval prowess and has left many wondering about its capability to project power within the region.
The submarine fleet is an essential asset of the naval power of any country, with the ability to conduct attacks on enemy ships and submarines in a stealthy and powerful manner. The submarine fleet of Pakistan has been at the forefront of its naval strategy, with the aim of checking the Indian Navy's dominance in the Arabian Sea. Yet, with just two operational submarines, the naval capabilities of Pakistan are greatly impaired.
The functional submarines would probably be the Agosta 90B-class of submarines that Pakistan purchased in the 1990s. The submarines have sophisticated air-independent propulsion systems, making them remain underwater for longer durations. Nevertheless, with fewer operational submarines, Pakistan's capacity to patrol the waters and defend against threats remains a concern.
The repercussions of this minimal submarine capability in India are extensive. With Pakistani submarines severely trimmed, India develops a strategic position in the Indian Ocean. India's Navy no longer has to concern itself with a strong Pakistani submarine threat so it can look to other agenda items, i.e., guarding its sea lanes of communication as well as guarding its coastal periphery.
Additionally, the reduced submarine capacity questions Pakistan's capacity to safeguard its own seas. The coastline of the nation is exposed to potential attacks, and the inability to operate submarines renders it impossible for Pakistan to safeguard its marine interests.
Therefore, the announcement of Pakistan's submarine fleet is a reason to worry for the naval capabilities of the nation. With just two working submarines, Pakistan's power projection in the region is greatly diminished. The consequence for India is important, as it is provided with a strategic upper hand in the region. As the region's geopolitical currents keep changing, it will be fascinating to observe how Pakistan is dealing with its submarine fleet's limitations and improving its naval capability.