- I have the following inkling to post. I know that the PN has been looking at 6 subs from China. The reasons as always are no other source, ease of integration of specific requirements and armament, soft loans and an unmatched price. PN is also aware of the dire need to replace the Augusta 70s which may have been upgraded but are now largely irrelevant in the subcontinental theatre. It has been searching far and wide for a possible second hand buy either from the french who are clearly not wanting to get involved for fear of losing the lucrative aviation deal. The Greek U214s may be an option if they become available as the Greeks clearly cannot keep them. I however dont think the Germans will play ball with us. There is therefore talk of Turkish subs as well.
The last aspect which does not make sense to me is where is all the money coming from, the answer to which may well be a joint Saudi effort to develop and train its Navy. Now that the fear of aggressive posturing by Pakistani forces (at peast covertly) has dissipated is it this factor which is ruling the sudden expansion of the naval armada of Pakistan. The possibility of buying New F22, ATRs, FACs and now the sub deal in conjunction with the HQ 9/16 deal points to a helpful hand rather than Pakistan's own meagre resources.
Araz
