Pakistan’s second Hangor-Class submarine launched in China

Pakistan’s second Hangor-Class submarine launched in China, as the advanced vessel is set to become a key asset for the Pakistan Navy. The Pakistan Navy confirmed on Sunday that the launching ceremony took place on Thursday in Wuhan, located in China’s Hubei Province.

During the event, Vice Admiral Ovais Ahmed Bilgrami, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff for the Pakistan Navy, emphasized that the Hangor-class submarines are outfitted with cutting-edge weapons and sensors. He stated that these submarines will be instrumental in maintaining regional power balance and maritime stability, as noted in a press release by the Pakistan Navy.

Bilgrami acknowledged the dedication and efforts of the Chinese team working on the project. Expressing satisfaction with its progress, he highlighted that the Hangor-class submarine initiative adds a new chapter to the enduring Pakistan-China friendship.

As per the agreement between the two nations, Pakistan is set to acquire a total of eight Hangor-class submarines from China. Four of these will be constructed in China, while the remaining four will be built in Karachi under a technology transfer arrangement. The Pakistan Navy stated that these submarines will feature state-of-the-art weapons and sensor systems, enabling them to engage targets from extended distances.

In an interview given in January, Pakistan’s Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, highlighted that the Hangor-class submarines will greatly enhance the Pakistan Navy’s operational capabilities. He noted that these submarines will provide superior stealth, mobility, and firepower, allowing for a diverse range of missions.

Ashraf confirmed that the project is progressing according to schedule and expressed confidence that the submarines will soon be integrated into the Pakistan Navy’s fleet.