Islamabad (TDI): The Pakistan Navy is preparing to induct its first Chinese-designed submarine into active service next year, according to Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf.
Speaking to China’s Global Times, Admiral Ashraf said the project to acquire eight Hangor-class submarines by 2028 is “progressing smoothly.” He noted that the launch of the second and third vessels in China earlier this year marked a major step forward in Pakistan-China naval collaboration.
The admiral highlighted that the program would not only bolster Pakistan’s underwater warfare capabilities but also enhance local expertise through technology transfer and skill development at Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works.
He also pointed to the successful induction of Type 054A/P frigates as another milestone in bilateral defense cooperation. Describing the frigates as “among the most advanced surface combatants,” Admiral Ashraf said they have strengthened the navy’s air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and maritime surveillance capabilities.
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“These platforms are vital for safeguarding maritime routes in the North Arabian Sea and the wider Indian Ocean, regions that are crucial for global trade,” he said.
The update on Pakistan’s submarine deal comes months after reports that Pakistan Air Force J-10 fighter jets, also Chinese-made, had downed an Indian Rafale aircraft in May, sparking debate over the performance of Western versus Chinese military systems.
Under the $5 billion submarine agreement, four vessels are being built in China while the remaining four will be constructed in Pakistan. The country has already launched three of the submarines from a shipyard along China’s Yangtze River.
Admiral Ashraf described Chinese-origin equipment as reliable, technologically sophisticated, and well-suited to Pakistan Navy’s operational needs. He added that cooperation is now expanding into emerging domains such as unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and electronic warfare.
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Over the past five years, Pakistan has remained China’s top defense customer, accounting for more than 60 percent of its arms exports, according to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).
Looking ahead, Admiral Ashraf said the Pakistan Navy envisions deeper collaboration with China in areas such as shipbuilding, joint training, technology sharing, and maritime industry development.
“Our partnership is built on mutual trust, shared strategic interests, and decades of cooperation,” he said. “Together, we aim to ensure a secure maritime environment that promotes regional peace and prosperity.”
He added that the addition of modern frigates and submarines has expanded the navy’s operational reach and deterrence capabilities. Joint exercises with China, he noted, have further improved interoperability and professional understanding between the two forces.
“This cooperation goes far beyond hardware,” Admiral Ashraf remarked. “It reflects a shared vision and a long-standing friendship between our two navies.”
