Pakistan's first Hangor-class submarine fires anti-ship missile in live trial
The Pakistan Navy’s newly commissioned Hangor-class submarine successfully launched an anti-ship cruise missile in the Arabian Sea.
In its first operational test, the Pakistan Navy’s Hangor-class submarine conducted a live missile launch in the Arabian Sea, accurately striking a pre-selected long-range target with an anti-ship cruise missile. The vessel had been delivered to Karachi Port in June, reflecting deepening strategic defence ties with China. Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Naval Staff, watched the exercise and praised the submarine’s firepower, noting its role in bolstering maritime deterrence.
The navy cited the historic name Hangor, recalling the 1971 submarine that sank the Indian frigate INS Khukri. Officials said the trial marks a milestone in maintaining a modern, combat-ready fleet and that a total of eight Hangor-class submarines will eventually be inducted.
Why it matters
The successful test demonstrates Pakistan's enhanced undersea warfare capability and its expanding defence cooperation with China.
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