Pakistan Launches Third Hangor Submarine

PAKISTAN has launched its third Hangor-class submarine, the future PNS Mangro at a launching ceremony in Wuhan, China. Held at Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group Company Ltd, Shuangliu Base, the event was attended by Deputy Chief of Naval Staff Project-2, Vice Admiral Abdul Samad, top brass and representatives of China’s defence industry.

While addressing the ceremony, the admiral stressed the significance of maritime security amid region’s current geo-strategic dynamics. He reaffirmed that Pakistan Navy remains fully committed to defend national interests while fostering a secure and cooperative maritime environment. Referring to Hangor-class submarines, he highlighted that their cutting-edge weaponry and advanced sensors would be instrumental in sustaining regional power equilibrium and ensuring maritime stability. Commending the dedicated work of China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Company Ltd (CSOC), he expressed satisfaction over steady progress of the project and remarked that the Hangor submarine initiative would bring a fresh dimension to the enduring, time-honoured partnership between Pakistan and China.

The Government of Pakistan signed an agreement with CSOC to acquire eight HANGOR Class submarines. Under the contract, four submarines are being built in China, while the remaining four will be constructed in Pakistan at Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works Ltd (KS&EW) under Transfer of Technology program.

The Hangor submarines are said to be based off the Chinese Type 039A Yuan-class submarine, with the lead vessel PNS Hangor launching last April while the second, PNS Shushuk hit water this March.

In November, Pakistan’s port city of Karachi hosts the second Pakistan International Maritime Expo & Conference (PIMEC) from November 3-6. PIMEC 2025 is the largest largest and most impactful maritime event in Pakistan and organised jointly by Pakistan Navy and Badar Expo Solutions under the patronage of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs. The event will bring together major naval and shipbuilding industry players as well as key decision-makers in the region.–shp/adj/dl (Pix:PN)