SANYA: Pakistan has inducted its first HANGOR-class submarine, PNS/M HANGOR, in a commissioning ceremony held in Sanya, China, marking a major step in the country’s naval modernization program.
President Asif Ali Zardari attended the ceremony as the chief guest, while Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf was also present along with senior officials from the Pakistan Navy and China’s PLA Navy.
Speaking on the occasion, President Zardari termed the commissioning of the submarine a historic milestone for the Pakistan Navy. He said the development reflects Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining a strong, balanced, and credible defence capability. He added that Pakistan is fully capable of defending its sovereignty and protecting its maritime interests and economic lifelines.
The Naval Chief highlighted the growing importance of securing global maritime routes, saying that key sea chokepoints are increasingly under pressure, affecting international trade and energy flows. He said modern, technology-driven naval forces are essential to maintain stability and a rules-based maritime order.
He further said that the HANGOR-class submarines, equipped with advanced sensors, modern weapon systems, and Air Independent Propulsion technology, will significantly enhance Pakistan’s underwater warfare capabilities. These submarines, he added, will play a key role in safeguarding Sea Lines of Communication across the Arabian Sea and the wider Indian Ocean region.
Admiral Naveed Ashraf also recalled the historic legacy of the original PNS HANGOR, which became the first submarine since World War II to sink an enemy warship during the 1971 conflict. He said the new platform will carry forward that legacy while strengthening Pakistan’s defence readiness with modern capabilities.
The commissioning ceremony was described as another symbol of strong Pakistan-China defence cooperation. Both countries’ naval officials attended the event.
The Prime Minister of Pakistan and the Chief of Army Staff also congratulated the nation and the Pakistan Navy on what they called a landmark achievement in maritime defence modernization.
