China’s Wuhan hosted the first Hangor-class submarine launch ceremony built for the Pakistan Navy.
Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Naveed Ashraf attended the event, which took place at the Shuangliu Base of Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group (WSIG).
During his speech, he highlighted the significance of maritime security given the current geostrategic climate in the area and the Pakistan Navy's dedication to helping to provide a secure and welcoming maritime environment for all.
He added that Hangor-class submarines equipped with cutting-edge armaments and sensors will be essential to maintaining regional peace and security.
He expressed satisfaction with the project's advancement while appreciating the China Shipbuilding and Offshore International Company Ltd.'s (CSOC) persistent work. He also highlighted that the initiative will undoubtedly provide a dimension to the ever-tested China and Pakistan friendship.
According to the announcement, during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Pakistan, the government of Pakistan signed an agreement with the China-Pakistan Combined Shipbuilding Corporation (CSOC) for the acquisition of eight Hangor-class submarines.
As per the agreement, four submarines would be manufactured in China and the remaining four will be produced at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works Ltd (KS&EW) in Pakistan under a Transfer of Technology (ToT) arrangement.
Modern weaponry and sensors will be installed on these submarines so they can engage targets at standoff ranges.
High-ranking officials from China and Pakistan, including representatives of China Shipbuilding and Offshore International Company Ltd. and Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group Company Ltd., attended the launching event.
Two Chinese-built Type 054 A/P frigates were inducted by the Pakistan Navy last year.
