Pakistan Navy Launches 4th Hangor-Class Submarine in China

Pakistan Navy has achieved a significant milestone in its naval modernization program with the successful launching of GHAZI, the fourth Hangor class submarine, at Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group Company Ltd’s Shuangliu Base in Wuhan, China. This development marks a crucial step forward in Pakistan’s strategic defense capabilities and reinforces the growing defense partnership between Pakistan and China.

Progress on Submarine Acquisition Program

The launching of GHAZI represents remarkable progress in Pakistan Navy’s submarine fleet expansion. With this fourth vessel now in the water, all four submarines currently under construction in China have entered the critical phase of rigorous sea trials. These submarines are approaching their final stages before official handover to Pakistan, demonstrating the project’s adherence to its ambitious timeline and the efficiency of Sino-Pakistani defense cooperation.

Eight-Submarine Deal

The foundation of this achievement lies in a landmark agreement signed between the Government of Pakistan and China for the acquisition of eight state-of-the-art Hangor Class submarines. This comprehensive contract follows a strategic construction model: four submarines are being manufactured in China, while the remaining four will be constructed domestically in Pakistan by Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works Ltd (KS&EW). The inclusion of Transfer of Technology (ToT) provisions ensures that Pakistan will develop indigenous submarine manufacturing capabilities, fostering long-term self-reliance in naval defense technology.

Advanced Capabilities

The Hangor Class submarines represent cutting-edge naval technology equipped with advanced weapons systems and sophisticated sensors. These vessels possess the capability to engage targets at standoff ranges, providing Pakistan Navy with enhanced operational flexibility and deterrence capacity. The submarines’ modern design incorporates stealth features and advanced combat systems, making them formidable assets for underwater warfare operations. Their deployment will significantly strengthen Pakistan’s maritime defense posture in the Indian Ocean region.

Regional Stability and Deterrence

Pakistan Navy has emphasized that the Hangor Class submarines will play a pivotal role in maintaining peace and stability in the region. These submarines will serve as credible deterrents, ensuring the security of Pakistan’s maritime interests and contributing to strategic balance in South Asian waters. The enhanced underwater capabilities will enable Pakistan Navy to effectively safeguard vital sea lanes of communication and protect the country’s exclusive economic zone.

Strengthening Bilateral Defense Cooperation

The launching ceremony witnessed the participation of senior officials from both Pakistan and China, underscoring the deepening bilateral cooperation between the two nations. This defense partnership extends beyond mere equipment transfer, encompassing technology sharing, joint training programs, and collaborative development initiatives. The successful execution of the Hangor submarine project exemplifies the trust and strategic alignment between the two countries in addressing mutual security concerns.

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Future Prospects and Indigenous Development

As Pakistan moves toward constructing the remaining four submarines domestically at Karachi Shipyard, the nation is poised to achieve significant advancement in its defense industrial base. The Transfer of Technology component will enable Pakistani engineers and technicians to master sophisticated submarine construction techniques, creating a foundation for future indigenous naval projects. This capability development aligns with Pakistan’s broader vision of achieving self-sufficiency in critical defense technologies while maintaining strategic partnerships with trusted allies like China.

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