The first Hangor-class submarine built for the Pakistan Navy was officially launched at a ceremony in Wuhan, China. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf attended the event at Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group’s Shuangliu Base.
Admiral Ashraf stressed the importance of maritime security given the current regional geo-strategic landscape, reaffirming Pakistan Navy’s commitment to fostering a safe maritime environment. He noted that these advanced Hangor-class submarines, equipped with cutting-edge weaponry and sensors, will play a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability.
Acknowledging the efforts of China Shipbuilding and Offshore International Company Ltd (CSOC), Admiral Ashraf expressed satisfaction with the project’s progress, underscoring its significance in enhancing the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China.
The statement mentioned that Pakistan signed a deal with CSOC during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit, securing the acquisition of eight Hangor-class submarines. While four will be built in China, the remaining four will be constructed in Pakistan at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works Ltd (KS&EW) under Transfer of Technology (ToT) agreement.
These submarines will be equipped with advanced weaponry and sensors, enabling them to engage targets from considerable distances. The launching ceremony saw the participation of senior officials from both Pakistan and China, including representatives from Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group Company Ltd and China Shipbuilding and Offshore International Company Ltd.
