( Pakistan strengthens naval might with 4 deadly Chinese stealth submarines
)
underwater stealth and strike power.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is rapidly transforming its underwater warfare
capabilities through deepened defence ties with China.
Four Hangor-class submarines built in China are now undergoing intense sea
trials. These vessels stand poised for handover to the Pakistan Navy as
early as 2026.
The development marks a major leap in Pakistan’s maritime defence posture.
It directly enhances the navy’s ability to safeguard vital sea lanes in the
North Arabian Sea and beyond.
The $5 billion agreement signed years ago covers eight advanced
diesel-electric attack submarines. Four will come directly from Chinese
shipyards while four more will be assembled in Pakistan with full
technology transfer.
PNS Hangor launched in April 2024. PNS Shushuk followed in March 2025. PNS
Mangro entered water in August 2025. PNS Ghazi launched in December 2025.
All four now push through rigorous sea trials in Chinese waters.
These submarines draw from the proven Type 039A Yuan-class design. They
feature cutting-edge upgrades tailored for Pakistan Navy requirements.
Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system forms the heart of their
superiority. Stirling-powered AIP allows extended submerged operations
without frequent snorkeling. This grants far greater stealth and endurance
compared to older platforms.
Pakistan’s existing Agosta-90B Khalid-class submarines received MESMA AIP
retrofits earlier. The new Hangor boats deliver significantly improved
underwater persistence and reduced acoustic signature over those upgraded
vessels.
Experts highlight that Hangor-class submarines can remain submerged for
weeks at low speeds. Their advanced noise reduction coatings and
hydrodynamic hull design make detection extremely difficult for enemy sonar
systems.
The submarines measure around 76-78 meters in length. They displace roughly
2,250 to 2,800 tons when submerged. Top speed reaches approximately 20
knots.
Each boat carries six 533mm torpedo tubes. These launch heavyweight
torpedoes along with anti-ship cruise missiles. Compatibility with Babur-3
submarine-launched cruise missiles adds potent land-attack options.
Reports indicate potential for both conventional and strategic payloads.
This multi-role flexibility strengthens Pakistan’s second-strike deterrence
significantly.
State-of-the-art avionics and sensors equip the Hangor class. Modern
electronic warfare suites and advanced combat management systems provide
superior situational awareness in contested waters.
Propulsion relies on four Chinese CHD620 diesel engines paired with the AIP
plant. This setup ensures reliable performance across extended patrols in
warm Indian Ocean conditions.
Technology transfer clause stands as a strategic win. Pakistani engineers
and shipbuilders at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works gain hands-on
expertise. Future submarines can increasingly be built domestically.
The first batch of four China-built vessels is expected to enter active
service throughout 2026. Remaining four will follow progressively until
2028.
This acquisition will expand Pakistan Navy’s AIP-equipped submarine fleet
substantially. It positions the force among the most capable underwater
arms in the region.
Hangor-class boats bring exceptional stealth features. Anechoic tiles and
quiet machinery reduce noise levels dramatically. Enemies will struggle to
track these silent hunters beneath the waves.
Cruise missile launch capability adds long-range punch. Submarines can
strike surface targets from concealed positions far from detection. This
creates serious challenges for any adversary fleet operating in the area.
Aircraft carriers and large warships face heightened risks. Stealthy
approach from underwater allows surprise attacks that are hard to counter
effectively.
Pakistan Navy leadership has expressed strong confidence in the programme.
Admiral Naveed Ashraf confirmed smooth progress and timely induction plans
in recent statements.
The partnership with China extends beyond hardware delivery. Joint
training, maintenance support, and ongoing upgrades ensure long-term
operational readiness.
Local construction of the second batch will create hundreds of skilled
jobs. It will boost Pakistan’s indigenous defence industry and reduce
reliance on foreign suppliers over time.
Hangor submarines will patrol critical maritime zones. They protect sea
lines of communication vital for Pakistan’s energy imports and trade.
Enhanced underwater presence contributes to overall maritime domain
awareness. It deters potential threats and supports freedom of navigation
in accordance with international law.
Compared to previous generations, these new boats of