The Indian Navy is acutely aware of China’s provision of advanced Hangor-class submarines to Pakistan, with Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan stating that India is actively enhancing its defensive capabilities to counter this emerging threat. This supply is part of a nearly USD 5 billion deal wherein Pakistan will acquire eight submarines by 2028, significantly upgrading its naval capabilities, especially with the integration of Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology. While the Hangor-class submarines will bolster Pakistan’s underwater presence, analysts emphasize that India maintains a substantial naval advantage, operating over 150 vessels, including two aircraft carriers and a robust array of advanced submarines and aerial assets. Despite Pakistan’s growing submarine fleet, the balance of power remains firmly tilted in India’s favor, with its superior operational capacity across the wider Indian Ocean and a commitment to expanding its submarine program further under Project 75I. The strategic dynamics in the Arabian Sea are shifting, but India’s comprehensive naval superiority ensures a decisive edge in overall maritime power projection.