The first Hangor-class submarine has arrived at Karachi Port, marking a significant milestone in the Pakistan Navy’s modernisation programme and underscoring the deepening strategic defence cooperation between Pakistan and China, a statement issued by the Pakistan Navy said on Thursday.

The Hangor-class submarine is equipped with advanced combat systems, modern sensors, Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology and enhanced stealth features, which will significantly enhance the navy’s combat capability.

On arrival, the submarine was accorded a traditional naval welcome attended by Pakistan Navy officers and personnel, as well as family members of the crew, the statement said.

“Cadets of Pakistan Naval Academy presented a ceremonial salute to the incoming submarine and its crew, accompanied by a fly-past by PN Z9EC helicopters,” said the PN.

Upon arrival at the Pakistan Navy Dockyard, a reception ceremony was held to mark the occasion. Commander Pakistan Fleet Vice Admiral Abdul Munib attended as the chief guest.

The name Hangor holds a significant place in Pakistan’s naval history, referring to the 1971 Pakistan-India war, during which then-PNS Hangor became the first submarine since World War II to sink a warship, when it sank the Indian frigate INS Khukri.

The navy is set to induct a total of eight Hangor-Class submarines.

The navy launched the first of the new submarines in April 2024, while the second, third and fourth were launched on March 15, August 15 and December 17 in 2025, respectively.