Looking at Asia, China looms large, and Taliban-led Afghanistan garners global attention. But, a country that abuts the two, Pakistan - east of Afghanistan and southwest of China (along the occupied Kashmir territory)- cannot be overlooked.
Pakistan's Navy took possession of the "most advanced" Chinese warship ever exported, a Type 054A frigate. "Equipped with state-of-the-art combat management and an electronic warfare system along with modern self-defense capabilities," it is to be deployed in the Indian Ocean. One of four hulls being built, the warship is expected to "strengthen Pakistan Navy's capabilities to respond to maritime challenges to ensure seaward defense, maintain peace, stability, and balance of power in the Indian Ocean region."
