Pakistan Navy’s newly inducted PNS/M Hangor has successfully conducted its maiden live weapon firing in the North Arabian Sea, marking a significant operational milestone for the submarine and the country’s naval modernization programme.
The submarine successfully engaged a designated target at extended range with an anti-ship cruise missile.
The firing was carried out as part of efforts to demonstrate the submarine’s operational and combat capabilities.
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf witnessed the live weapon firing and expressed appreciation for the combat capabilities demonstrated by PNS/M Hangor.
the naval chief emphasised the importance of strengthening Pakistan Navy’s subsurface warfare capabilities and maintaining a credible maritime defence capability. The successful firing was described as an indication of the submarine’s operational preparedness and underwater combat potential.
The PNS/M Hangor is the first of eight Hangor-class submarines being acquired by Pakistan from China under the Pakistan Navy’s fleet modernisation programme. The submarine incorporates advanced combat systems, modern sensors, Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology and enhanced stealth features.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the Pakistan Navy and its leadership following the successful live weapon firing. He said the successful engagement of a long-range target with an anti-ship cruise missile demonstrated the Navy’s operational preparedness.
The prime minister also appreciated the professional performance of the personnel involved in preparing and operating PNS/M Hangor. He reiterated that Pakistan’s armed forces would continue efforts to maintain preparedness for national security challenges.
Balochistan Chief Minister Praises Naval Capability
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti also congratulated the Pakistan Navy on the successful firing. He praised Admiral Naveed Ashraf and the officers and personnel associated with PNS/M Hangor.
Bugti described the successful engagement of a distant target as a demonstration of the Navy’s operational preparedness and professional capabilities. He also said the development reflected Pakistan’s continued efforts to strengthen its maritime defence capacity.
PNS/M Hangor was commissioned in Sanya, China, in April 2026 before arriving at Karachi in June. At the commissioning, officials highlighted its advanced weapons, sensors, AIP system and stealth characteristics as part of Pakistan Navy’s broader modernisation programme.
