Question : MILITARY COOPERATION BETWEEN CHINA AND PAKISTAN

(a) whether China is rapidly building up its under sea capabilities but India’s submarine fleet is not in robust condition;

(b) if so, the details thereof and corrective measures taken by the Government in this regard;

(c) whether the military cooperation between China and Pakistan has been increasing and China has agreed to supply submarines to Pakistan, if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto;

(d) whether Pakistan is increasing its strength in India ocean with the help of China, if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the steps taken by the Government to meet the country defence requirement and enhance survei- llance in the Indian ocean region?

MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI MANOHAR PARRIKAR)

(a) to (d): Government keeps a constant watch on all developments having a bearing on national security and takes all necessary measures inc- luding force accretion, capacity building and capability enhancement to safeguard our maritime interests.

(e) Ships and Aircraft of Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard regularly undertake surveillance in our areas of interest on the western and eastern seaboards. Information sharing with various security agencies is carried out to optimize surveillance. A coastal chain of static radars has been established.