Pakistan Navy’s Fourth Hangor-Class Submarine Launched in China

Wuhan, China. According to a statement and video released by the Pakistan Navy on Wednesday night, the fourth and final Hangor-class submarine under construction in Wuhan, China, has been successfully launched. The submarine has been named “Ghazi.”

As per the Pakistan Navy’s statement, all four submarines being built in China are now undergoing rigorous sea trials and are in the final stages of being handed over to Pakistan. This marks a historic achievement for the Pakistan Navy.

In an interview in November, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf stated that the first batch of Hangor-class submarines, built under the China-Pakistan cooperation project, is expected to enter operational service with the Pakistan Navy by 2026.

In 2015, Pakistan signed a contract with China to procure eight Hangor-class conventional submarines. Under this agreement, the first four submarines are being constructed by China, while the remaining four will be assembled in Pakistan, thereby enhancing Pakistan’s technical capabilities. Pakistan is set to acquire eight advanced submarines between 2022 and 2028. The first Hangor-class submarine was launched in China in April 2024, followed by the second and third submarines earlier this year.

Praising the China-Pakistan defense cooperation, Admiral Ashraf noted that it reflects the professionalism and close naval collaboration between the two countries.

Chinese military affairs expert Zhang Junshe remarked, “Submarines hold strategic significance. This represents a high level of strategic mutual trust and profound friendship between China and Pakistan. Practical defense cooperation helps safeguard regional maritime security, peace, and stability.”

The Hangor-class submarine is not the only example of China-Pakistan defense cooperation. In August, Pakistani media reported that the Pakistani military had also inducted the Chinese-made Z-10ME attack helicopter.

In a press conference in August, Chinese Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Jiang Bin commented on the matter, stating, “China is willing to share the achievements of its equipment development with friendly countries, including Pakistan. China-Pakistan defense and security cooperation is not aimed at any third party and is committed to maintaining international and regional security and stability.”