By Web Desk
Lahore
The Pakistan Navy marked a major operational milestone in its maritime defense and subsurface warfare capabilities as its newly inducted submarine PNS/M HANGOR successfully carried out its maiden live weapon firing in the North Arabian Sea on Sunday, September 27, 2026.
During the complex naval exercise, the advanced Hangor-class submarine launched a modern anti-ship cruise missile (ASCM) from a submerged position, scoring a direct, pinpoint hit on a designated long-range surface target ship. The precision engagement demonstrated the combat readiness, targeting accuracy, and operational lethality of the newly commissioned subsurface vessel.
Naval chief reviews operational readiness
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf witnessed the live-fire weapon demonstration from on board a naval command ship at sea. The Naval Chief praised the exceptional technical proficiency, operational discipline, and combat readiness displayed by the officers and sailors aboard PNS Hangor, commending the crew for achieving complete target destruction in demanding sea conditions.
Admiral Ashraf stated that the successful live missile firing reaffirms the Pakistan Navy's unwavering resolve and capability to protect Pakistan's maritime frontiers, defend exclusive economic zones, and preserve the balance of power across vital sea lanes in the North Arabian Sea. He emphasized that maintaining credible subsurface deterrence is essential for safeguarding national sovereignty against any maritime aggression.
Advanced Hangor-class capabilities
PNS Hangor represents the lead vessel of eight state-of-the-art diesel-electric attack submarines being acquired under a landmark strategic bilateral defense agreement with China. Under the terms of the project, four submarines are being constructed by the China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation, while the remaining four are being built domestically with full technology transfer at the Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works (KS&EW).
The Hangor-class features advanced combat management systems, integrated sonar suites, torpedo defense systems, and modern Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology. The AIP system significantly extends the submarine's submerged patrol endurance from several days to several weeks without needing to surface or snorkel to recharge batteries, dramatically reducing acoustic vulnerability and enhancing stealth operations.
National leadership commends maritime achievement
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari both issued statements congratulating the Pakistan Navy, defense engineers, and the entire naval command on the historic milestone. The Prime Minister stated that the successful test firing demonstrates Pakistan's technological advancement and modern defense capabilities, reiterating that a robust naval force is vital for regional peace and deterrence.
Naval headquarters confirmed that PNS Hangor will continue planned integration exercises and operational patrols alongside surface fleet assets and naval aviation wings as Pakistan expands its subsurface fleet through 2028.
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