Karachi (TDI): PNS/M Hangor, the first of Pakistan’s new Hangor-class submarines, arrived at Karachi harbor to a ceremonial welcome, marking a major milestone in the navy’s modernization and warfare capabilities.
Cadets of the Pakistan Naval Academy presented a ceremonial salute to the submarine and its crew, while Pakistan Navy Z9EC helicopters conducted a fly-past to mark the occasion.
A reception ceremony was later held at the Pakistan Navy Dockyard, where Commander Pakistan Fleet Vice Admiral Abdul Munib attended as chief guest.
The submarine is equipped with advanced combat systems, modern sensors, Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology and enhanced stealth features.
This allows it to operate far longer underwater without surfacing than conventional diesel-electric boats, making it considerably harder to detect and track. These are the qualities that define a credible undersea deterrent.
The induction of PNS/M Hangor reflects the growing strategic defense cooperation between Pakistan and China, under which the Hangor-class submarine program is being implemented.
Beijing has emerged as Islamabad’s most consequential defense partner in recent years, and the submarine program is among the most visible fruits of that relationship.
Pakistan’s coastline stretches over a thousand kilometers along the Arabian Sea, and its maritime interests demand a naval force capable of projecting real deterrence.
Pakistan Navy described the arrival of the submarine as a transformative step towards enhancing its operational readiness and safeguarding the country’s maritime interests in the region. PNS/M Hangor is the first in what is expected to be a class of several vessels.
