ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s navy on Thursday welcomed the arrival of PNS/M Hangor, the first of a new class of submarines being acquired under a major defense collaboration with China, in a move expected to strengthen the country’s maritime deterrence and undersea warfare capabilities.
The Hangor-class program is among Pakistan’s largest naval modernization projects and forms part of a broader defense partnership between Islamabad and Beijing. Based on an advanced Chinese submarine design, the vessels are equipped with air-independent propulsion (AIP) technology that allows them to remain submerged for extended periods, enhancing stealth and operational endurance.
“The submarine was accorded a traditional naval welcome attended by senior naval officers, families of the crew, and Pakistan Navy personnel,” the navy said in a statement.
“Cadets of Pakistan Naval Academy presented a ceremonial salute to the incoming submarine and its crew, accompanied by a fly-past by PN Z9EC helicopters,” it added.
First Hangor Class Submarine PNS/M Hangor arrives in Karachi, Pakistan, on June 11, 2026. (Pakistan Navy)
The submarine arrived in Karachi, where a reception ceremony was held at the Pakistan Navy Dockyard attended by Commander Pakistan Fleet Vice Admiral Abdul Munib.
“PNS/M HANGOR is equipped with advanced combat systems, modern sensors, Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, and enhanced stealth features, which will augment Pakistan Navy’s combat capability,” the navy said.
“The arrival of PNS/M HANGOR marks a transformative step toward Pakistan Navy’s modernization and reflects the strong strategic defense cooperation between Pakistan and China.”
Pakistan is expected to induct a fleet of Hangor-class submarines under agreements signed with China, significantly expanding the navy’s warfare capabilities as it seeks to safeguard sea lanes and strategic maritime interests in the Arabian Sea and beyond.
First Hangor Class Submarine PNS/M Hangor arrives in Karachi, Pakistan, on June 11, 2026. (Pakistan Navy)
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the Pakistan Navy on the submarine’s arrival and described the Hangor project as a symbol of Pakistan-China friendship.
“The Hangor project reflects the strong strategic cooperation between Pakistan and China in the defense sector,” he said in a statement issued by his office.
Sharif said Pakistan remained committed to promoting peace, stability and strategic balance in the region while strengthening its defense capabilities, and described the Hangor submarine project as an important milestone in the country’s journey toward greater defense self-reliance.
