Pakistan Navy to get first Chinese-designed submarine next year

Pakistan Navy Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf has announced that the country’s first Chinese-designed Hangor-class submarine is expected to enter active service next year.

 Speaking to China’s Global Times, he said that the delivery program for eight submarines by 2028 is “progressing smoothly.”

Admiral Ashraf described the launch of the second and third submarines in China earlier this year as a “major milestone” in bilateral naval cooperation. He noted that the project not only enhances the Pakistan Navy’s underwater warfare capability but also promotes self-reliance through technology transfer and skill development at the Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works.

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Admiral Ashraf also highlighted the induction of the Type 054A/P frigates as another significant step in Pakistan-China defence collaboration. These multirole vessels, already operational with the Pakistan Navy, are among “the most advanced surface combatants,” he said.

The Chinese-built frigates, he added, have bolstered the navy’s capacity in air defence, anti-submarine warfare, and maritime surveillance.

“These platforms are playing a key role in ensuring maritime security in the North Arabian Sea and the broader Indian Ocean region, which is vital for the global economy,” Admiral Ashraf was quoted as saying.

Admiral Ashraf said that Chinese defence equipment had proven to be “reliable, technologically advanced, and well-suited” to the Pakistan Navy’s operational needs, with positive experience in both performance and technical support.