China Welcomes Pakistan Navy’s Second Hangor Class Submarine, “PNS/M SHUSHUK”
The second Hangor-Class submarine, PNS/M SHUSHUK (Desig) was launched at the Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group Company Ltd. Shuangliu Base in Wuhan, China marking a major advancement for Pakistan’s naval capabilities. In the Pakistan Navy’s continuous attempts to upgrade and fortify its marine defensive systems the occasion represented a significant turning point.
Vice Admiral Ovais Ahmed Bilgrami, the Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, was the Chief Guest at the occasion. He underlined in his speech the region’s changing geostrategic landscape and the growing significance of maritime security. He reaffirmed the Pakistan Navy’s dedication to protecting the nation’s maritime interests and guaranteeing a safe and stable maritime environment for regional harmony and collaboration.
Vice Admiral Bilgrami emphasized that the Hangor-Class submarines, which are outfitted with state-of-the-art weapons systems and sensors, will improve the Navy’s operational readiness and act as a vital deterrence. He pointed out that the Pakistan Navy’s offensive and defensive capabilities will be greatly enhanced by these submarines, which are built to engage targets at standoff ranges.
He expressed pleasure with the project’s consistent progress and praised China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Company Ltd.’s (CSOC) cooperative efforts. The Vice Admiral emphasized that the Hangor Class Submarine Project symbolizes the long standing and enduring relationship between China and Pakistan in addition to strengthening Pakistan’s defense.
Chinese President Xi Jinping signed the deal to purchase eight Hangor Class submarines while in Pakistan for a historic visit. As per the agreement:
- In China, four submarines will be built.
- Under the Transfer of Technology (ToT) program the final four would be constructed in Pakistan at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works Ltd (KS&EW).
In addition to strengthening bilateral defense cooperation with China this alliance is viewed as a significant step forward for Pakistan’s attempts to become self sufficient in defense production.
top officials from both nations attended the ceremony including CSOC, Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group and top members of Pakistan’s naval leadership.
In an area where naval might is becoming more and more important Pakistan advances its maritime might and strategic capabilities with the launch of PNS/M SHUSHUK.
