Pak. Army deploying new Chinese cannon
Context:
In addition to sending Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, building communication towers, and laying underground cables along the Line of Control, China has reportedly been assisting the Pakistani Army in developing its defence infrastructure.
Chinese Assistance for Pakistan
- The Pakistan Army has received assistance from China in developing its defence infrastructure.
- China has given Pakistan UAVs that are used for Line of Control monitoring and reconnaissance.
- Communication infrastructure, including as communication towers and underground cables, has been installed along the Line of Control with assistance from China.
- As part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) initiative, China has constructed enclaves in PoK and is attempting to protect these investments.
- Pakistan and the Chinese company Norinco have a contract for the supply of 236 SH-15 truck-mounted howitzer weapons. In January 2022, the first batch was delivered.
- Intercepted intelligence indicated that Chinese troops and engineers are involved in constructing infrastructure along the Line of Control.
What are the possible intention behind China’s Support?
- China’s support aims to strengthen its position as a reliable ally of Pakistan and ensure the safety of its investments in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
- China and India have a complex relationship with various disputes, including the border issue. Pakistan has been a historical rival of India, and by supporting Pakistan, China can effectively counterbalance India’s influence in the region.
- For many years, China has been Pakistan’s primary source of military hardware. Along with enhancing their military relations, this arms trade benefits China economically.
What is SH-15 howitzers ?
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Development:
A)The PCL-181 was developed as a truck-mounted, 155 mm self-propelled howitzer for the People’s Liberation Army Ground Force (PLAGF).
B)It was designed to replace the 152 mm PL-66 towed gun-howitzer and the 130 mm Type 59-1 towed field guns.
C)The PCL-181 made its first public appearance during the 70th Chinese National Day Parade on October 1, 2019.
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Variants:
A)PCL-181: The designation used by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
B)SH-15: Export designation for international customers.
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)
- The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a major infrastructure project initiated by China in Pakistan.
- It aims to create a network of transportation, energy, and industrial infrastructure to enhance connectivity between the two countries and promote economic development in Pakistan.
- The corridor spans approximately 3,000 kilometers and consists of various projects, including the development of the Gwadar Port, road and rail networks, energy projects, and special economic zones.
- One of the key objectives of CPEC is to provide a secure and efficient route for China’s energy imports from the Middle East, reducing its dependence on the existing route through the Straits of Malacca.
- By developing a deep-water port at Gwadar in the Arabian Sea and connecting it to China’s Xinjiang Province through a well-built road and rail network, the corridor aims to facilitate trade between Europe and China.
