The Pakistan Navy has achieved a major milestone with the arrival of its first Hangor Class submarine, PNS/M Hangor, at Karachi Port. The submarine received a traditional naval welcome, highlighting the importance of this achievement for Pakistan’s maritime defense capabilities.
Senior Pakistan Navy officers, naval personnel, and the families of crew members gathered to welcome the submarine. Cadets from the Pakistan Naval Academy presented a ceremonial salute, while Pakistan Navy Z9EC helicopters performed a special fly past to honor the vessel’s arrival.
A reception ceremony was later held at the Pakistan Navy Dockyard, where Commander Pakistan Fleet Vice Admiral Abdul Munib attended as the chief guest. The event marked another significant step in the Pakistan Navy’s ongoing modernization efforts.
The PNS/M Hangor is equipped with advanced combat systems, modern sensors, Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, and enhanced stealth capabilities. These advanced features allow the submarine to operate for longer periods underwater while remaining difficult to detect, significantly strengthening Pakistan’s naval defense posture.
The arrival of the submarine also reflects the growing strategic defense partnership between Pakistan and China. Earlier this year, the submarine was officially commissioned during a ceremony in Sanya, China. The event was attended by President Asif Ali Zardari and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, who described the project as a major achievement in bilateral defense cooperation.
President Zardari called the commissioning of the submarine a historic moment that would help strengthen Pakistan’s maritime security and safeguard the country’s economic interests. Admiral Ashraf emphasized the importance of modern naval assets in addressing evolving maritime security challenges and protecting critical sea routes.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Defence Forces, and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir also congratulated the nation and the Pakistan Navy on this important accomplishment.
The induction of PNS/M Hangor is expected to enhance Pakistan’s underwater warfare capabilities and further strengthen the country’s maritime defense strategy for the future.
