The Pakistan Navy expects to commission its first Chinese-designed Hangor-class submarine into active service next year, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf said in an interview with Chinese state media.
Speaking to the Global Times, Admiral Ashraf said that the ongoing deal between Pakistan and China—under which Islamabad will receive eight Hangor-class submarines by 2028—was “progressing smoothly.” He highlighted that the successful launch of the second and third submarines in China earlier this year marked a major milestone in the two countries’ naval cooperation.
The navy chief added that the project would not only enhance Pakistan’s undersea warfare capabilities but also support self-reliance through technology transfer and skill development at the Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works.
Admiral Ashraf also noted that the induction of Type 054A/P frigates represented another key achievement in China-Pakistan maritime collaboration. He described these vessels as “among the most advanced surface combatants,” playing a vital role in strengthening the navy’s multi-mission capability in air defence, anti-submarine warfare, and maritime surveillance across the North Arabian Sea and the wider Indian Ocean region.
He further praised Chinese-origin platforms as reliable and technologically advanced, adding that Pakistan is now exploring cooperation with China in emerging domains such as unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and advanced electronic warfare.
Admiral Ashraf reaffirmed that the Pakistan Navy’s partnership with China rests on deep-rooted friendship, mutual trust, and shared strategic interests, expressing optimism that the collaboration will continue to expand in the coming decade to include greater interoperability, research, and industrial cooperation.
