Pakistan Strengthens Naval Power with Third Hangor-Class Submarine Launch in China

Download IPFS

In a significant boost to Pakistan’s maritime capabilities, the Pakistan Navy launched its third Hangor-class submarine, PNS/M MANGRO, at a ceremony in China on Friday. This development follows the unveiling of the Navy’s second Hangor-class submarine, PNS Shushuk, underscoring Islamabad’s ongoing efforts to modernize its naval forces amid evolving regional security challenges.

The launch took place at the Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group Company Ltd, Shuangliu Base in Wuhan, China. Vice Admiral Abdul Samad, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff Project-2, attended the ceremony as the Chief Guest, highlighting the strategic importance of maritime security in the current geopolitical landscape. He reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to defending Pakistan’s national interests while promoting a stable and cooperative maritime environment.

The Hangor-class submarines, equipped with cutting-edge weapons systems and advanced sensors, are expected to play a vital role in sustaining regional power equilibrium and ensuring maritime stability. These vessels reflect Pakistan’s commitment to modernizing its naval fleet and enhancing its strategic deterrence capabilities in the Indian Ocean and beyond.

China’s pivotal role in the program was also emphasized during the ceremony. The Chief Guest praised the China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Company Ltd (CSOC) for its contribution to the project and noted that the Hangor-class initiative strengthens the long-standing defense partnership between Islamabad and Beijing. Under the agreement with CSOC, Pakistan is acquiring eight Hangor-class submarines, with four being built in China and the remaining four to be constructed domestically at Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works Ltd (KS&EW) under a Transfer of Technology (ToT) program.

High-ranking officials from Pakistan and China, including representatives from Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group and CSOC, attended the launch, showcasing the close military collaboration between the two countries. The initiative highlights Pakistan’s commitment to self-reliance in defense production while also leveraging international partnerships for advanced technology acquisition.

The induction of PNS/MMANGRO marks a new chapter in Pakistan’s naval modernization program, sending a clear message about the country’s resolve to safeguard its maritime borders and assert its strategic presence in the region. Analysts note that the addition of advanced submarines will bolster Pakistan’s naval deterrence and enhance its ability to respond swiftly to emerging security threats, reinforcing stability in regional waters.

With the Hangor-class program progressing steadily, Pakistan demonstrates its determination to strengthen its defense posture, ensuring both national security and regional maritime stability.