SOURCE: AFI
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The Indian Ocean is witnessing a simmering naval arms race between India and Pakistan, with China emerging as a key player supplying military equipment to both sides. This escalating rivalry is raising concerns about regional stability.
Pakistan recently bolstered its naval arsenal with the launch of its first Hangor-class submarine, a vessel based on a Chinese design and potentially equipped with nuclear missiles. This move comes amidst heightened tensions following India’s successful test of a new anti-submarine warfare (ASW) weapon.
Analysts believe that this tit-for-tat escalation is driven by each country’s desire to counter the other’s military capabilities. India views a robust navy as essential for safeguarding its vast coastline and strategic interests in the Indian Ocean. Pakistan, on the other hand, seeks to maintain a credible deterrence against its larger neighbor.
China’s role in this arms race is particularly noteworthy. As a major supplier of military equipment to both India and Pakistan, China stands to benefit economically from these sales. However, China’s involvement also injects a complex geopolitical dimension into the regional security equation.
The intensifying naval arms race in the Indian Ocean has the potential to destabilize the region. The presence of nuclear-powered submarines and advanced weaponry raises the specter of a potential military confrontation. It is imperative for all parties involved to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control.