The Pakistan Navy’s inaugural Hangor-class submarine, PNS/M Hangor, has reached Karachi, where it received a traditional naval reception from naval personnel and senior officers. The arrival ceremony included the presence of senior officers, crew members’ families, and cadets from the Pakistan Naval Academy who rendered a ceremonial salute.
Adding to the grandeur, PN Z9EC helicopters performed a fly-past in honour of the submarine. A reception was subsequently held at the Pakistan Navy Dockyard, with Vice Admiral Abdul Munib, Commander Pakistan Fleet, attending as the chief guest.
The submarine boasts cutting-edge combat systems, state-of-the-art sensors, Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, and enhanced stealth capabilities. This arrival signifies a major advancement in the Pakistan Navy’s modernisation efforts and highlights the strengthening strategic defence partnership between Pakistan and China.
Earlier, the Pakistan Navy had commissioned the PNS/M Hangor in April during a ceremony in Sanya, China, attended by President Asif Ali Zardari as the chief guest. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf was also present at the event, which was hailed as a landmark in Pakistan-China defence collaboration and a key step forward in the Navy’s modernisation drive.
President Zardari described the commissioning as a historic move to bolster Pakistan’s maritime defence capabilities, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and economic interests. Admiral Ashraf emphasized the evolving maritime security challenges and the critical role of advanced submarines in protecting vital sea lines of communication.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Defence Staff, and Chief of Army Staff Syed Asim Munir extended congratulations to the nation and the Pakistan Navy on this significant achievement, underscoring its importance for national security.
