Islamabad: In a major leap for Pakistan’s naval defense, the country is set to receive Chinese-built Hangor-class submarines by 2026, a move expected to significantly enhance the Pakistan Navy’s strategic capabilities. The state-of-the-art vessels, being developed under a technology transfer agreement with China, are regarded as a “game changer” for regional maritime balance.
According to defense sources, eight Hangor-class submarines will be built — four in China and four at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works (KSEW). The submarines feature advanced stealth technology, improved endurance, and modern weapon systems, including air-independent propulsion (AIP), which allows them to remain submerged for extended periods.
Experts say the induction of these submarines will elevate Pakistan’s deterrence and surveillance capacity in the Arabian Sea, giving the Navy a decisive edge in modern naval warfare.
