Pakistan Commissions First Hangor-Class Submarine in China, Bolstering Naval Deterrence

Key facts

• Pakistan commissioned its first Hangor-class submarine on Thursday in Sanya, China.
• President Asif Ali Zardari attended as chief guest, calling it a 'historic milestone'.
• The submarine is based on China's Type 039A design and carries a crew of 38 plus special forces.
• It is equipped with torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and air-independent propulsion systems.
• Pakistan plans to acquire eight submarines, with four built at Karachi Shipyard.
• The name 'Hangor' recalls a 1971 sinking of an Indian warship, the first since WWII.

A Strategic Leap in the Arabian Sea

Pakistan formally commissioned its first Hangor-class attack submarine in a ceremony held in the southern Chinese port city of Sanya on Thursday, marking a significant milestone in the country's naval modernization drive. The induction of the advanced vessel, built with Chinese technology, signals Islamabad's intent to strengthen its maritime deterrence capabilities amid long-standing rivalry with India. The submarine, widely believed to be based on China's Type 039A design, is equipped with advanced sensors, torpedoes, and anti-ship missiles, as well as an air-independent propulsion system that allows extended underwater endurance. With a crew capacity of 38, plus additional space for special forces, the Hangor-class represents a generational leap for Pakistan's submarine fleet.

A Historic Ceremony with Top Leadership

President Asif Ali Zardari served as the chief guest at the commissioning ceremony, joined by Pakistan's navy chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf and senior military officials from both countries. Zardari, who was on an official visit to China, described the induction as a 'historic milestone' for the navy, reflecting Islamabad's resolve to maintain a credible and balanced defense posture. He emphasized that Pakistan is capable of defending its sovereignty, protecting maritime interests, and securing key economic lifelines. The ceremony underscored the deepening defense partnership between Pakistan and China, which has expanded in recent years through joint projects and military sales.

Eight Submarines in a Phased Acquisition Plan

The Hangor-class submarine is the first of eight such vessels that Pakistan has agreed to acquire from China. Under the current plan, the final four submarines will be built at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works in the southern port city, a move that aims to boost local shipbuilding capacity and technology transfer. The acquisition is part of a broader naval modernization effort, as Pakistan seeks to counterbalance India's larger navy and protect vital sea lanes in the Arabian Sea and the wider Indian Ocean. Admiral Ashraf noted that disruptions at critical maritime choke points are increasingly threatening global trade and energy security, underscoring the need for an advanced navy.

Historical Echoes and Regional Rivalry

The name 'Hangor' carries deep historical significance for Pakistan's navy. It refers to a Pakistani submarine that sank an Indian warship during the 1971 war — the first such sinking since World War II. Admiral Ashraf highlighted this legacy, saying the commissioning marked another chapter in the longstanding defense partnership between Pakistan and China. Pakistan has long relied on its submarine fleet as part of its strategic deterrence against neighboring India, with which it has fought three wars since independence in 1947. During last year's border conflict over Kashmir, Pakistan used Chinese-made J-10C fighter jets and claimed to have downed Indian warplanes, including French-made Rafale jets — a claim India has not confirmed.

Deepening China-Pakistan Defense Ties

The submarine deal is the latest manifestation of the robust defense cooperation between Islamabad and Beijing. Last year, the two countries pledged to expand economic cooperation and investment under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, a flagship program of China's global Belt and Road Initiative. Admiral Ashraf said the Hangor-class submarines, with their advanced sensors, weapons, and propulsion systems, would help preserve stability in the region and secure vital sea lanes. The commissioning ceremony in Sanya, attended by top officials from both nations, underscores the strategic importance both countries place on their partnership.

Outlook: A More Capable Pakistani Navy

With the induction of the first Hangor-class submarine, Pakistan takes a significant step toward modernizing its naval fleet and enhancing its ability to project power in the Indian Ocean. The remaining seven submarines, to be delivered over the coming years, will further bolster Pakistan's underwater warfare capability. However, the acquisition also risks escalating regional tensions, as India continues to expand its own naval forces. The strategic balance in South Asia's maritime domain is shifting, and Pakistan's new submarines are poised to play a central role in that evolving dynamic.

The bottom line

• Pakistan commissioned its first Hangor-class submarine in China, part of an eight-vessel deal.
• The submarine is based on China's Type 039A design, with advanced weapons and propulsion.
• President Zardari and Navy Chief Ashraf attended the ceremony, highlighting bilateral defense ties.
• The name 'Hangor' commemorates a 1971 sinking of an Indian warship.
• Four of the eight submarines will be built at Karachi Shipyard, boosting local industry.
• The acquisition aims to counter India's naval strength and secure key sea lanes.