Pakistan's first Hangor-class submarine, PNS Hangor, has arrived at its home port in Karachi. This submarine is the first of eight vessels of this class to be inducted into the Pakistani Navy by 2028, with four of them to be built in Karachi.
Features of the Hangor-Class Submarine
The Hangor-class submarine is derived from the Chinese Type-39A attack submarine. It is equipped with an Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, which allows a conventional diesel-electric submarine to remain submerged for extended periods without needing to surface or snorkel to recharge batteries. Surfacing makes submarines more vulnerable to detection by UAVs, aircraft, and surface vessels.
Pakistan's Submarine Fleet Expansion
With the addition of these eight submarines, Pakistan's submarine fleet will grow to thirteen vessels. Of these, nine will be equipped with AIP systems, including the existing five submarines in service.
In contrast, the Indian Navy currently operates sixteen attack submarines and three strategic submarines. The conventionally powered diesel-electric attack submarines belong to three classes: Kalvari, Sindhughosh, and Shishumar. Only six submarines from the Kalvari class will receive a plug-in AIP system developed domestically by the DRDO.
India's Submarine Modernization Challenges
India's submarine modernization has faced delays and shortfalls. The Navy's 1998 plan to induct 24 conventional submarines by 2030 has not materialized; only six vessels have been added, while four have been retired.
The long-pending P-75I tender for six to nine submarines, valued at approximately Rs 70,000 crore, has progressed, with MDL and Germany's TKMS clearing technical evaluation. However, deliveries will take years, meaning P-75I and Project-76 could proceed in parallel. Project-76 submarines are expected to feature a modified DRDO-developed AIP system.
The Indian Navy is also exploring the procurement of indigenous nuclear-powered attack submarines under Project-77 and leasing a nuclear attack submarine from Russia. However, these programs are years away from realization. Despite these challenges, the Indian Navy maintains overwhelming numerical superiority over its Pakistani counterpart.
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