Pakistan Navy has launched its fourth Hangor-class submarine, PNS Ghazi, at the Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group’s Shuangliu facility in Wuhan, China. This step marks another milestone in the service’s largest-ever submarine acquisition programme.
With the launch of Ghazi, all four Hangor-class submarines being built in China are now afloat and undergoing sea trials. The deliveries to Pakistan expected once testing and acceptance processes are completed. The programme forms part of a wider bilateral agreement under which Pakistan will acquire eight new submarines from China.
Under the contract, four submarines are being constructed in China, however the remaining four vessels will be built domestically at Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works. The shipyard will receive transfer-of-technology.
The Hangor-class submarines are expected to be equipped with advanced sensors and weapons, enabling engagement of targets at extended stand-off ranges. Pakistani officials describe the class as central to maintaining deterrence and regional maritime stability.
