Strategic Concerns for India Amid Pakistan Navy Movements

Pakistan is once again turning its attention to the Bay of Bengal, a region it has largely avoided since the 1971 India–Pakistan War that led to the liberation of Bangladesh. Back then, India’s naval strength forced Pakistan to retreat, discouraging any further attempts to operate in these waters. However, recent remarks by a senior Pakistan Navy official indicate a renewed interest in deploying naval assets, particularly submarines, in the region—raising fresh strategic concerns for India.

Pakistan has accelerated its plans to induct advanced Hangor-class submarines into its navy, with a deal in place to procure eight such vessels from China. One submarine has already been delivered, and during its transit, Commodore Omar Farooqi highlighted that these submarines would expand Pakistan’s naval reach beyond the Arabian Sea into the Bay of Bengal. Equipped with air-independent propulsion technology, these submarines can remain underwater for extended durations, making detection difficult. While this move may not drastically alter the balance of power, experts believe it could create strategic unease for India in this vital maritime zone.

The Bay of Bengal remains a crucial region for India due to its Eastern Naval Command and key infrastructure such as INS Varsha. It is also a major route for international trade and communication. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s growing ties with Bangladesh after political changes in 2024 have added another dimension to the situation. Despite Pakistan’s reliance on Chinese and Turkish naval assets, India’s superior naval capabilities, including aircraft carriers and nuclear submarines, ensure a strong strategic advantage. Still, any potential deployment by Pakistan in these waters is expected to keep India on alert.