Operational crises haunt Pak Navy post Op Sindoor; low morale and ageing ships big problems: Report
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Diverging Reports Breakdown
Operational crises haunt Pak Navy post Op Sindoor; low morale and ageing ships big problems: Report
Pakistan Navy is grappling with one of its most severe operational downturns in decades. Only two submarines in working condition, several surface ships docked in port, and sagging morale among personnel. A key factor is the ageing fleet, including Type-21 frigates acquired from the United Kingdom in the 1990s, which now require frequent and expensive maintenance. More recent additions to the fleet, such as the Chinese-built Type-054A frigates, are also encountering problems. Many young officers are reportedly serving aboard ships that have not left port in months, resulting in a generation of sailors with limited operational experience. Indian Navy, meanwhile, has expanded its presence in the Arabian Sea, conducting regular patrols and joint exercises with international partners.
The Pakistani Navy is struggling with low personnel morale and ageing ships. AI-generated image for representative purpose
The Pakistan Navy is grappling with one of its most severe operational downturns in decades, with only two submarines in working condition, several surface ships docked in port, and sagging morale among personnel, CNN-News18 has reported, citing sources and maritime tracking data.
The report comes in the wake of India’s Operation Sindoor, which followed a deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22. Since then, the Indian Navy has ramped up patrols and exercises near Pakistani waters, which CNN-News18 describes as “largely uncontested.”
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Fleet in port, not at sea
Open-source maritime data examined by CNN-News18 indicates that most of Pakistan’s surface combatants are currently berthed at Karachi Naval Base rather than conducting patrols.
A key factor is the ageing fleet, including Type-21 frigates acquired from the United Kingdom in the 1990s, which now require frequent and expensive maintenance. Many systems are no longer supported by original manufacturers, further complicating upkeep.
More recent additions to the fleet, such as the Chinese-built Type-054A frigates, are also encountering problems. CNN-News18 reports that issues with radar systems and propulsion have forced several of these newer vessels to return repeatedly to shipyards.
Logistics and funding woes deepen crisis
Pakistan’s diversified procurement of naval platforms from the United States, the United Kingdom, China, and Turkey has created complex logistical challenges. Each system demands unique maintenance regimes, spare parts, and technical expertise. According to the report, Karachi Shipyard is not equipped with the diagnostic tools or software needed for the Chinese vessels, and repair partnerships with Chinese firms have stalled due to cost and technology-transfer restrictions.
Financial constraints are also playing a role. The delays and cancellations in maintenance schedules have compounded technical shortcomings across the fleet.
Training gaps and low morale
The human side of the problem is also alarming. Many young officers are reportedly serving aboard ships that have not left port in months, resulting in a generation of sailors with limited operational experience. Sources said that the lack of training opportunities has worsened morale since Operation Sindoor.
The report adds that several naval drills — including multilateral engagements — have been either postponed or cancelled due to vessel unavailability, undermining Pakistan’s standing as a regional maritime partner.
Strategic concerns and regional impact
The weakening of Pakistan’s naval capability raises strategic questions, particularly around the security of China’s investments in Gwadar Port and other coastal infrastructure projects. Without a credible maritime deterrent, such assets could be left exposed.
The Indian Navy, meanwhile, has expanded its presence in the Arabian Sea, conducting regular patrols and joint exercises with international partners. According to CNN-News18, Indian ships are increasingly treating waters near Pakistan as a non-contested zone.