Pakistan’s HANGOR flexes firepower in Arabian Sea

Pakistan Navy’s newly inducted submarine PNS/M HANGOR has successfully carried out its first live weapon firing in the North Arabian Sea, demonstrating its operational and combat capabilities.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the submarine launched an anti-ship cruise missile and successfully struck a designated target at extended range with precision.

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf witnessed the firing exercise. He praised the submarine’s combat capabilities and highlighted the importance of strengthening Pakistan Navy’s underwater warfare capabilities.

The naval chief said enhanced subsurface capabilities were important for maintaining credible maritime deterrence and strengthening the country’s ability to protect its maritime interests.

The successful firing marks a significant operational milestone for the newly inducted submarine. The Pakistan Navy said the exercise demonstrated its focus on maintaining a modern and combat-ready force capable of safeguarding Pakistan’s maritime frontiers.

The navy also reiterated its commitment to contributing to regional maritime security and peace.

The development comes as Pakistan Navy continues to conduct operations aimed at strengthening maritime security. In a separate operation, Pakistan Navy ships HUNAIN and YARMOOK intercepted a suspicious vessel during a routine patrol in the Arabian Sea.

The operation resulted in the seizure of more than 2,800 kilogrammes of narcotics. The drugs were estimated to be worth around $750 million. According to the ISPR, the narcotics were recovered from concealed compartments of the vessel after naval personnel carried out a boarding operation.

Admiral Ashraf commended the officers and crew involved in the counter-narcotics operation for their professionalism and vigilance.

The naval chief also reaffirmed the Pakistan Navy’s commitment to preventing illicit trafficking and strengthening maritime security.

In another recent operation, the Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Coast Guard, working with the Joint Maritime Information Coordination Centre, intercepted a large quantity of contraband in Balochistan’s Pishukan area.

The operation was conducted on intelligence provided to the authorities. Liquor and illegal medicines were seized, while the recovered items were handed over to the Pakistan Coast Guard for further legal proceedings.