Hi, first time poster. been reading the forum for a while, just want to share some thoughts.
PN already has a counter to large navies in its SSK force. 5 modern SSK running loose will be a major headache even for the biggest navies in the world. Remember how cautious the British were with just one Argentinian sub on the loose during the Falkland War.
Second, Pakistan needs a strong maritime strike aircraft force. This is the classic lateral thinking counter to stronger navies. How many Mirages have maritime strike capabilities? JF-17 with C-802 should be good replacement as the Mirages retire. A good MPA force is of course necessary to support maritime strike. More P-3s hopefully, or Chinese Y-8 MPA as they go into production. Pakistani AWACS should also offer some maritime surveillance capabilities.
The core frigate force of around half a dozen multipurpose frigates is IMO enough. Get any additional Perry if they are available, even though they are old and doesn't have the AAW ability of modern Chinese frigate such 054A, its ASW capability is what's most needed by PN. I don't think PN should go for other old ship such as the Type 42, which doesn't have the ASW capability that PN needs. If technically possible, PN should look into upgrading the F22P with TAS, either Western or Chinese. 054A does have a modern TAS according to some sources, coupled with strong AAW, a couple 054A are useful as the core of several ASW task forces. But PN budget may not allow acquisition of 054A. In that case, maybe Pakistan can get some ASW version 056 corvette outfitted with TAS and full helicopter hanger. Similar to to the Pattani class corvette built for Thailand. But I don't think PN should devote too much resources into large surface combatants. They are expensive to man and maintain, especially the second hand ships, and during wartime, they are not useful against larger navies.
Azmat class missile boats look like very well balanced design. They have the firepower to pose a serious threat to large navies, and are flexible enough to do patrol duty during peacetime. More should be acquired. Perhaps an ASW version, with lighter missile armament, and better sonar with torpedo tube and ASW rockets can be developed.
Any details on the Jalalat II class and Jurrat class missile boat?
PN has limited budget, and is mainly defensive in its mission. Large expensive prestige items such as big surface vessels should be avoided. Modern SSKs are money well spent even if they are expensive. Medium sized ships such Azmat class which packs a heavy punch and are also useful for patrols should be acquired in larger number.
My knowledge of Pakistani military is limited. Please excuse any mistakes and critique my opinions. Hope to learn more from this forum. Greeting from a Chinese friend.
