Hangor-Class Submarine

Full Specifications

Hangor-Class Submarine: Pakistan’s Next-Generation Attack Submarine

The Hangor-class submarine is Pakistan Navy’s newest generation diesel-electric attack submarine designed to enhance maritime deterrence and undersea warfare capabilities in the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean region. Based on the Chinese Type 039B (Yuan-class) design, the Hangor class incorporates modern stealth features, Air Independent Propulsion (AIP), advanced sonar systems, and long-endurance patrol capabilities.

The program represents one of Pakistan’s largest naval modernization efforts, aimed at strengthening anti-ship, anti-submarine, intelligence gathering, and sea denial operations. The class is expected to significantly improve Pakistan’s underwater combat capability while complementing the existing Agosta submarine fleet.

Manufacturer

The Hangor-class submarine is being built by the state-owned Chinese shipbuilder China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (now part of China State Shipbuilding Corporation) in cooperation with Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works (KSEW) in Pakistan.

Under the submarine acquisition agreement, four boats are being constructed in China and four in Pakistan, supporting local naval industrial development and technology transfer.

Speed and Range

Powered by a diesel-electric propulsion system combined with Air Independent Propulsion technology, the Hangor-class can remain submerged for extended periods without surfacing.

The submarine is estimated to achieve submerged speeds exceeding 20 knots and has a range of approximately 8,000 nautical miles while operating on the surface or snorkeling. Its endurance allows prolonged patrol missions in strategic maritime zones.

Cost / Price

The Hangor-class program is part of an estimated US$4.5 to US$5 billion submarine procurement package covering eight submarines, associated weapons, training, logistics, and infrastructure support. Individual submarine costs are estimated at approximately US$550 to US$650 million depending on configuration and support packages.

The platform is expected to remain a key component of Pakistan’s naval deterrence strategy well into the 2050s.