Pakistan commissions first Hangor-class submarine in China

Pakistan on Thursday, April 30, commissioned the first of eight Hangor-class submarines in China, marking a significant step in its naval modernisation and deepening defence cooperation with Beijing, according to US media.

The commissioning ceremony took place in the southern Chinese port city of Sanya. Asif Ali Zardari, Pakistan’s president, attended as the chief guest, alongside Pakistan Navy chief Naveed Ashraf and senior military officials from both countries. Zardari and other Pakistani officials have made multiple visits to China in recent years.

Zardari, who is on an official visit to China, described the induction of the advanced submarine as a “historic milestone” for the navy, saying it reflects Islamabad’s determination to maintain a credible and balanced defence posture. He said Pakistan is capable of defending its sovereignty, protecting maritime interests and securing key economic lifelines.

The Hangor-class submarine is widely believed to be based on China’s Type 039A submarine design. It can carry a crew of 38, with additional capacity for special forces, and is equipped with torpedoes and anti-ship missiles. Pakistan has agreed to acquire eight such submarines, with the final four to be constructed at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works in the southern port city of Karachi.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ashraf warned that disruptions at critical maritime choke points are increasingly threatening global trade and energy security, underscoring the importance of a modern naval force. He said the Hangor-class submarines, equipped with advanced sensors, weapons and air-independent propulsion systems, would help preserve stability in the region and secure vital sea lanes across the Arabian Sea and the wider Indian Ocean.

Ashraf also noted the historical significance of the name “Hangor,” which refers to a Pakistani submarine that sank an Indian warship in 1971 — the first such sinking since World War II. He said the commissioning represents another chapter in the longstanding defence partnership between Pakistan and China.

The development comes as Pakistan and China continue to expand broader cooperation. Last year, the two countries pledged to increase economic collaboration and investment under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, a flagship component of the Belt and Road Initiative.

By Tamilla Hasanova