Pakistan Navy’s newly inducted PNS/M HANGOR, the first submarine of the Hangor class, has successfully conducted its maiden live weapon firing in the North Arabian Sea, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Sunday.
During the exercise, the submarine launched an anti-ship cruise missile and accurately engaged a designated long-range target. ISPR described the firing as a major demonstration of the submarine’s operational readiness and combat capability.
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf witnessed the firing and praised the combat capabilities of PNS/M HANGOR. He also highlighted the strategic importance of strengthening the Pakistan Navy’s subsurface capabilities for maritime deterrence.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the Pakistan Navy and its leadership on the successful firing. According to a statement from his office, he said the exercise demonstrated the operational readiness, professional expertise and combat capability of the Navy’s submarine force.
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President Asif Ali Zardari also congratulated the Pakistan Navy and commended the successful firing. His office said he highlighted the role of modern naval capabilities in protecting Pakistan’s maritime boundaries and contributing to regional security.
PNS/M HANGOR arrived at Karachi Port in June after being inducted into the Pakistan Navy. Its induction is part of Pakistan’s broader naval modernisation programme and defence cooperation with China.
Pakistan is scheduled to acquire a total of eight Hangor-class submarines. The vessels feature advanced combat systems, modern sensors, Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology and enhanced stealth capabilities, according to the Pakistan Navy.
The Hangor name also carries historical significance for Pakistan’s Navy. During the 1971 Pakistan-India war, the former PNS Hangor sank the Indian frigate INS Khukri, marking the first submarine sinking of a warship since the Second World War.
The first new Hangor-class submarine was launched in China in April 2024, while the second, third and fourth submarines were launched in 2025.
The latest firing follows other recent Pakistan Navy weapons tests. In April, the Navy tested the indigenously developed Taimoor anti-ship weapon system and also conducted a live firing of a locally developed anti-ship ballistic missile at extended range.
The successful exercise marks another step in the operationalisation of PNS/M HANGOR and the Pakistan Navy’s efforts to strengthen its underwater warfare capabilities.
