PAKISTAN’S FIRST HANGOR-CLASS SUBMARINE CONDUCTS MAIDEN LIVE MISSILE FIRING

September 27, 2026

Pakistan’s newly inducted PNS/M HANGOR, the first of the country’s Hangor-class submarines, has conducted its maiden live weapon-firing exercise in the North Arabian Sea, marking a new development in Pakistan’s naval modernisation programme. The submarine successfully engaged a designated long-range target using an anti-ship cruise missile, according to Pakistan’s military authorities.

Pakistan Navy Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf witnessed the exercise and highlighted the submarine’s combat capabilities and the importance of strengthening underwater capabilities. Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations described the firing as a demonstration of the vessel’s operational readiness.

The PNS/M HANGOR arrived at Karachi in June after being constructed in China as part of a wider defence cooperation programme between Beijing and Islamabad. The submarine is equipped with modern combat systems, sensors, air-independent propulsion and stealth features, according to Pakistan Navy information.

Pakistan is scheduled to receive a total of eight Hangor-class submarines under the programme. Four are being constructed in China, while four others are being built in Pakistan under a technology-transfer arrangement. The programme represents a significant expansion of Pakistan’s submarine fleet and its maritime warfare capabilities.