The commissioning ceremony of the first HANGOR Class Submarine, PNS/M HANGOR, was held in Sanya, China. President Asif Ali Zardari, who served as the chief guest on the occasion, described the commissioning as a historic milestone in the modernisation of the Pakistan Navy. He reaffirmed Pakistan's resolve to maintain a robust, balanced, and credible defence posture. The President stated that Pakistan is fully capable of defending its sovereignty, protecting its maritime interests, and ensuring the security of its economic lifelines.
Naval Chief Highlights Submarine's Capabilities
Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf said that HANGOR Class Submarines, armed with state-of-the-art weapons, advanced sensors, and Air Independent Propulsion, will be key in preserving maritime order and stability in the region. He emphasised that these submarines will play a pivotal role in deterring aggression and ensuring the security of vital Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) across the Arabian Sea and the wider Indian Ocean region.
Strengthening Pakistan-China Friendship
The commissioning of the first HANGOR Class Submarine marks another chapter in the time-tested and enriching friendship between Pakistan and China. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir congratulated the entire nation and the Pakistan Navy on achieving this historic milestone.
