KARACHI: The Pakistan Navy launched the third Hangor-class submarine in China on Friday.

The launching ceremony of the submarine, PNS/M Mangro (Desig), was held at the Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group Company Ltd, Shuangliu Base, Wuhan, China, according to a PN press release issued here.

The Deputy Chief of Naval Staff Project-2, Vice Admiral Abdul Samad, attended the launch ceremeony as the chief guest. Speaking at the programme, he stressed the significance of maritime security amid the region’s current geo-strategic dynamics.

He reaffirmed that Pakistan Navy remains fully committed to defend its national interests while fostering a secure and cooperative maritime environment.

Referring to Hangor-class submarines, he highlighted that their cutting-edge weaponry and advanced sensors would be instrumental in sustaining regional power equilibrium and ensuring maritime stability.

Commending the dedicated work of China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Company Ltd (CSOC), he expressed satisfaction over the steady progress of the project and remarked that the Hangor-class submarine initiative would bring a fresh dimension to the enduring, time-honoured partnership between Pakistan and China.

The government of Pakistan had signed an agreement with CSOC to acquire eight Hangor-class submarines. Under the contract, four submarines are being built in China, while the remaining four will be constructed in Pakistan at the Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works Ltd (KS&EW) under the Transfer of Technology (ToT) programme.

The launching ceremony was also attended by high-ranking officials from Pakistan and China, including representatives from Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group Company Ltd and CSOC.

Published in Dawn, August 16th, 2025