On March 15, 2024, the Pakistan Navy launched its second Hangor-class submarine, PNS/M SHUSHUK, in China. The submarine project, comprising eight submarines aimed at bolstering maritime security, showcases Pakistan’s military collaboration with China. The first four submarines will be constructed in China, while the remaining will be built in Pakistan. This initiative is expected to enhance Pakistan’s naval capabilities significantly after completion.

On March 15, 2024, the Pakistan Navy launched the second Hangor-class submarine, designated PNS/M SHUSHUK, at the Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group in Wuhan, China. The ceremony was honored by Vice Admiral Ovais Ahmed Bilgrami, Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, who emphasized the role of the submarine in enhancing regional maritime security and safeguarding national interests. He noted that the Hangor-class submarines, equipped with advanced weaponry and sensors, are pivotal in maintaining regional maritime order.

This project stems from an agreement between the Government of Pakistan and China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Company Ltd (CSOC) for the acquisition of eight Hangor-class submarines, inked during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Pakistan. The contract stipulates that four submarines will be manufactured in China while the remaining four will be assembled in Pakistan at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works Ltd (KS&EW) under a Transfer of Technology program, ensuring that they are equipped with high-tech systems for extended-range target engagement.

The launch event was attended by senior officials from both Pakistan and China, including representatives from the shipbuilding companies involved. The Hangor-class submarines represent an export variant of China’s Type 039B Yuan-class submarines, aligning with a purchase agreement made by Pakistan in April 2015. While the original timeline projected delivery of eight submarines between 2022 and 2028, there have been delays, with the first submarine now anticipated to launch in 2024.

Information regarding the specific subsystems and weaponry of the Hangor-class submarines remains undisclosed. However, it is revealed that these submarines will measure 76 meters and displace 2800 tons, making them slightly smaller yet heavier than their S26 counterparts. Furthermore, the Pakistan Navy currently operates three Agosta 90B submarines, undergoing upgrades to enhance their capabilities.

The completion of the Hangor-class submarine project is set to significantly bolster the Pakistan Navy’s capabilities, particularly in Anti-Access/Area Denial (A2/AD) operations. While details on the submarines’ armament are yet to be confirmed, the inclusion of advanced weaponry could potentially grant Pakistan a notable deep strike capability.

The launching of the PNS/M SHUSHUK marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s naval capabilities, with an emphasis on regional maritime security. This initiative is expected to enhance the Pakistan Navy’s operational effectiveness with advanced technology. The development of the Hangor-class submarines reinforces Pakistan’s long-standing collaboration with China, positioning the naval force to better address regional defense challenges.

Original Source: www.navalnews.com

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