Story perspectives

Pakistan commissions first Hangor-class submarine, eyes local production

5/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

President Asif Ali Zardari and Admiral Naveed Ashraf commissioned Pakistan's first Hangor-class submarine in Sanya, China, on April 30, 2026.
The Type 039A-based vessel, carrying 38 crew, special forces, torpedoes, anti-ship missiles and air-independent propulsion, will be built in batches: four in China and four at Karachi Shipyard under technology transfer.
Admiral Ashraf said the submarines will boost maritime security, protect Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean sea lanes, and aid regional stability.

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Story summary

President Asif Ali Zardari and Admiral Naveed Ashraf commissioned Pakistan's first Hangor-class submarine in Sanya, China, on April 30, 2026.
The Type 039A-based vessel, carrying 38 crew, special forces, torpedoes, anti-ship missiles and air-independent propulsion, will be built in batches: four in China and four at Karachi Shipyard under technology transfer.
Admiral Ashraf said the submarines will boost maritime security, protect Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean sea lanes, and aid regional stability.