Akasa
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According to unconfirmed reports, there are at least two Type 092s in service (estimates range from 2 to 6).
China Defense Blog: PLAN’s Xia submarine to Pakistan??
China Defense Blog: PLAN’s Xia submarine to Pakistan??
The once slowly expanding military ties between Beijing and Islamabad have now matured into a strategic partnership, as is evident from local production of the JF-17 Thunder multirole fighter, the Al-Khalid tank, and F-22P frigates.This partnership is further evidenced by the PLANs regular participation in the large multinational AMAN series of exercises hosted by the Pakistan Navy. Pakistans strategic community and Beijing could plan the training and subsequent lease of a nuclear-powered submarine.
The PLANs Xia submarine could be an appropriate start. A pool of selected Pakistan Navy officers could be trained to operate an SSBN, with theoretical/academic work ashore followed by operational training at sea and finally a strategic deployment. Though such a plan seems ambitious and the PLA Navys SSBNs rarely prowl far, this remains a viable choice that would serve the two countries well strategically.
The PLANs Xia submarine could be an appropriate start. A pool of selected Pakistan Navy officers could be trained to operate an SSBN, with theoretical/academic work ashore followed by operational training at sea and finally a strategic deployment. Though such a plan seems ambitious and the PLA Navys SSBNs rarely prowl far, this remains a viable choice that would serve the two countries well strategically.