SANYA, CHINA (May 1, 2026) — President Asif Ali Zardari and Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf attended the commissioning of the PNS Hangor, the first of Pakistan’s new attack submarines, in Sanya today. This diesel-electric vessel features advanced Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, enabling it to remain submerged for longer periods and operate over significantly greater distances.
Quick Facts
- PNS Hangor is the first of its class, equipped with AIP technology for enhanced stealth and endurance.
- The submarine is designed to protect Pakistan’s maritime sovereignty and economic lifelines.
- Armed with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors, it significantly upgrades Pakistan’s underwater offensive capability.
- The project reflects the deepening strategic and defense partnership between Pakistan and China.
- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir congratulated the nation on this technological achievement.
Defence Analyst Rear Admiral (R) Naveed Rizvi says, “The Hangor-class submarine, the whole project is about eight submarines, out of which four will be built in China and four in Pakistan, and they are under progress at various stages simultaneously. So the first Hangor-class… pic.twitter.com/0GvQFRmy9Q
— Pakistan TV (@PakTVGlobal) April 27, 2026
President Zardari described the commissioning as a historic milestone in the Navy’s modernization, affirming Pakistan’s resolve to maintain a robust and credible defense posture. He emphasized that the country is fully capable of defending its sovereignty and ensuring the security of its economic lifelines through such advanced maritime assets.
Admiral Naveed Ashraf highlighted that disruptions at critical maritime choke points increasingly threaten global trade and energy security. He noted that maintaining a stable, rule-based maritime order requires technologically advanced naval forces, stating that the Hangor-class submarines will be key in preserving regional stability.
The project marks a new chapter in the long-standing strategic partnership between Pakistan and China. Both Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir lauded the achievement, noting that the integration of state-of-the-art sensors and weapons systems ensures Pakistan’s maritime interests remain secure against evolving threats.
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