China wants to make Pakistan’s Navy stronger, India ready to counter any threat: Navy Chief Admiral Tripathi
He pointed out that many Pakistan Navy warships and submarines are being built with Chinese support.
“Many Pakistan Navy warships and submarines are being built with Chinese support showing that China is interested in making Pakistan’s Navy stronger,” said Admiral Tripathi.
The Navy Chief talked about Pakistan’s acquisition of eight new submarines, which are expected to have substantial combat potential, represents a significant shift in the regional naval dynamics.
Despite this, he assured that India is fully aware of the capabilities of these vessels and has adapted its defense strategies accordingly.
“That is why we are tweaking our concepts to be able to tackle all threats from our neighbors,” the Admiral explained.
Pakistan’s growing Navy
Admiral Tripathi also acknowledged the rapid expansion of Pakistan’s navy, which is aiming to increase its fleet to 50 ships.
He expressed concern over this aggressive build-up, especially given the country’s allocation of resources to military projects over the welfare of its population.
“We are aware of the surprising growth of the Pakistan navy which aims to become a 50-ship Navy. They have chosen weapons over the welfare of their people,” the Navy Chief said.
India’s strengthening Navy
During the press conference, Admiral Tripathi also provided updates on India’s nuclear submarine capabilities, a crucial element of the nation’s defense strategy.
He confirmed the successful test of a missile from INS Arighaat, the second nuclear-powered submarine in India’s fleet.
“India carried out a test of the missile and the launch was successful. The agencies concerned are examining the trajectory that the missile took and soon we will know the results,” said Admiral Tripathi.
He also discussed the readiness of India’s first nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, INS Arihant, which has completed several deterrence patrols.
“The unclear submarines INS Arihant has carried out many deterrence patrols and the second one just carried out a missile test and will do what it is supposed to do after that,” he added.
South China Sea tensions
As part of ongoing defense modernization, Admiral Tripathi revealed that India is in the advanced stages of negotiations for the acquisition of Rafale Marine combat aircraft from France.
Further, he said that the deal, which is a government-to-government transaction, is one step away from being presented to India’s Cabinet Committee on Security.
“Rafale Marine is at an advanced stage of negotiations and is only one level short of taking it to the Cabinet Committee on Security. Since it is a government-to-government deal, it should not take much time,” said the Admiral.
On regional security, Admiral Tripathi raised India’s concerns regarding the escalating tensions in the South China Sea.
“India concerned about South China Sea tensions,” he said.
