Latest developments
On Tuesday, the Pakistan Navy’s newly commissioned Hangor-class submarine, PNS Hangor (S-141), conducted a live weapon firing exercise in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Karachi. The drill, part of the navy’s ongoing modernization program, was carried out under the supervision of the Inter‑Service Public Relations (ISPR) and witnessed by senior naval officers. During the exercise, the submarine launched a single torpedo from its submerged position, striking a target at a range of approximately 5,000 meters. The launch was conducted at 10:30 a.m. local time, and the torpedo’s impact was confirmed by onboard sensors and satellite tracking. ISPR released a statement saying the firing demonstrated the vessel’s combat readiness and the navy’s capability to conduct precise underwater attacks. The statement highlighted that the exercise was part of a series of drills aimed at enhancing the fleet’s operational effectiveness. The Hangor-class, a modernized variant of the German Type 209/1400, entered service in 2021 and is equipped with advanced sonar, navigation, and weapon systems. Its maiden live firing marks a key milestone in Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen its maritime deterrence against potential threats in the Arabian Sea.
Why it matters
For Pakistan, the exercise underscores a growing emphasis on maintaining a credible sea‑based deterrent. The Arabian Sea borders several key shipping lanes and is a strategic corridor for energy supplies. By proving its submarine’s firing accuracy, the navy signals to regional actors that it can defend its maritime interests and counter any aggressive moves. The drill also boosts confidence among the Pakistani public and the armed forces. It demonstrates that the navy’s investment in modern vessels is yielding tangible results, potentially encouraging further procurement and training. Additionally, the exercise supports the naval base at Karachi, which hosts a significant portion of Pakistan’s surface and submarine fleet.
Background
The Hangor-class submarines were built by the German shipbuilder Howaldtswerke‑Deutsche Werft (HDW) under a joint venture with Pakistan’s Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works (KSEW). The first vessel, PNS Hangor, was commissioned in 2021 after a four‑year construction period that included extensive technology transfer. Before the Hangor-class, Pakistan operated the older Kilo‑class submarines, which were retired in 2019. The new class offers greater endurance, higher speed, and improved stealth capabilities, making it a cornerstone of the navy’s future strategy. The acquisition of the Hangor-class was part of a broader naval modernization plan announced in 2018, which also includes the procurement of new frigates, patrol vessels, and advanced missile systems.
What happens next
Following the successful firing, the navy plans to conduct a series of sea‑to‑air and anti‑ship missile drills over the coming months. The Hangor will also participate in joint exercises with allied navies, such as the annual "Exercise Joint Shield" with the United States. ISPR has indicated that the submarine will undergo further trials to test its endurance and sensor suites before it is fully integrated into the fleet’s operational schedule.
Summary
- PNS Hangor completed its first live weapon firing in the Arabian Sea. - The drill involved launching a torpedo at a 5,000‑meter target. - ISPR highlighted the exercise as proof of the vessel’s combat readiness. - Hangor-class submarines are modernized Type 209/1400 vessels with advanced systems. - The navy will continue with further trials and joint exercises to enhance operational capability.
Related headlines (third-party)
- Dawn: Newly inducted Hangor-class submarine conducts maiden live weapon firing in Arabian Sea: ISPR
- Business Recorder: PNS/M Hangor demonstrates combat capability in maiden weapon firing
- The Express Tribune: Newly inducted HANGOR conducts maiden live weapon firing in Arabian Sea: ISPR
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