Rawalpindi: The Pakistan Navy’s first “Hangor-class submarine” has been formally inducted into the naval fleet in China.
According to Inter-Services Public Relations, the chief guest at the commissioning ceremony was President Asif Ali Zardari, while Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf was also present on the occasion.
In his address, President Zardari termed it a significant milestone in the modernization and advancement of the Pakistan Navy. He said Pakistan possesses full capability to defend its sovereignty, protect maritime interests, and secure economic corridors.
Speaking at the ceremony, Admiral Naveed Ashraf stated that any disruption in key maritime routes poses a serious threat to global trade and energy supply. He added that Hangor-class submarines will play an important role in deterring aggression and ensuring the security of sea lanes in the Arabian Sea.
Referring to the 1971 war, he noted that the earlier Hangor submarine had sunk an enemy warship — the first such incident since World War II.
According to ISPR, the modern Hangor-class submarines are equipped with advanced technology, including air-independent propulsion, modern sonar systems, a stealthy design, and the ability to conduct long-duration underwater operations.
The commissioning is being seen as another example of strong defense cooperation between Pakistan and China. The leadership also congratulated the nation and the Pakistan Navy on this achievement.
The induction of Hangor-class submarines is a remarkable addition to Pakistan’s maritime deterrence capability which will strengthen regional security balance and improve surveillance and operational reach in strategically important waters.
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