The Pakistan Navy has launched its second Hangor-class submarine, the PNS/M SHUSHUK, at Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group Company Ltd, Shuangliu Base, Wuhan, China. The ceremony, held on March 15, 2024, was attended by Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ovais Ahmed Bilgrami, who emphasized the strategic importance of the project in strengthening Pakistan's maritime defense capabilities.

Strategic Significance and Regional Impact

Vice Admiral Bilgrami highlighted the critical role of the Hangor-class submarines in maintaining regional stability and securing Pakistan's maritime interests. The submarines are equipped with cutting-edge weapons and sensors, enhancing Pakistan's ability to conduct long-range strikes and secure its maritime borders. Bilgrami also acknowledged the close cooperation with China, noting that the project symbolizes the deep-rooted defense ties between the two countries.

Project Overview and Future Plans

The Hangor-class submarines are an export variant of China's Type 039B Yuan-class submarines, tailored to Pakistan's operational requirements. The project, initiated with a bilateral agreement signed during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Pakistan, includes the construction of eight submarines – four in China and four in Pakistan's Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works Ltd (KS&EW). The submarines will feature advanced air-independent propulsion (AIP) systems, significantly enhancing their stealth and endurance capabilities.

Pakistan's investment in the Hangor-class submarine fleet marks a critical step in its naval modernization efforts, aimed at countering regional maritime threats and ensuring strategic balance in the Indian Ocean. The Hangor-class project also reflects Pakistan's broader effort to enhance its anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) capabilities, potentially integrating long-range, submarine-launched cruise missiles like the Babur-3 to further extend its maritime strike reach.