Type 039B Hangor Class Submarine
In a recent discussion with China’s Global Times, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) of the Pakistan Navy (PN), stated that the anticipated Hangor-class submarines would join the fleet “very soon”. These modern vessels are an important part of Pakistan’s efforts to upgrade its navy.
The Hangor-Class Submarine Program
In 2015, Pakistan ordered eight modified S26 submarines from China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co. Ltd. (CSOC) as part of a multi-billion-dollar deal. This deal also included four Type 054A/P frigates and other naval equipment.
The S26 submarine is an export version of China’s Type 039 series used by the Peoples Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), and it was customised for Pakistan’s needs. Thailand has also placed an order for S26 submarines, but the timing of their fulfilment remains uncertain.
The agreement included a technology transfer programme, which allowed Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works (KSEW) to build four of the eight submarines in Pakistan. This shows Pakistan’s goal: to become a “submarine-building navy.”. Deliveries were planned for 2022-2028, but delays occurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic and Germany not supplying diesel engines.
Pakistan decided to use the domestically developed CHD-620 diesel engine from China as a substitute. KSEW started work on the fifth submarine in December 2021 and the sixth in December 2022. Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group launched the first Hangor-class submarine in April 2024, and it is currently nearing operational readiness.
Strategic Importance
The Hangor-class submarines play a crucial role in enhancing Pakistan’s naval strength. While some discussions focus on the potential role of the submarines in Pakistan’s nuclear strategy, particularly regarding Babur-3 submarine-launched cruise missiles (SLCMs), this is not their main purpose.
These submarines are mainly intended to improve Pakistan’s anti-ship and anti-submarine combat abilities. With advanced Stirling air-independent propulsion (AIP) systems, these submarines can stay submerged for long durations, which lessens the need to surface for air. This feature improves their stealth and effectiveness in protecting Pakistan’s maritime interests, including its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Anti-Access and Area-Denial (A2/AD) Strategy
The Hangor-class submarines will play a crucial role in Pakistan’s Anti-Access and Area-Denial (A2/AD) strategy, which is designed to prevent adversaries from entering important sea areas. Focusing on the Arabian Sea, these submarines will provide a strong defence against threats, particularly the Indian Navy.
Increasing the number of AIP-equipped submarines in Pakistan from three to eleven by the mid-2030s represents a significant enhancement of its naval power. Moreover, surplus S26T submarines from the Royal Thai Navy could further enhance the submarine fleet.
Future Plans: Shallow Water Attack Submarines (SWATS)
Alongside the Hangor-class programme, the PN is also working on the Shallow Water Attack Submarine (SWATS) initiative. Designed to operate in Pakistan’s coastal waters, these smaller AIP-equipped submarines will bolster the PN’s defense in busier, shallow maritime zones.
They will also take over special operations from older MG-110 submarines, allowing the Hangor-class subs to focus on deeper missions. Companies such as Türkiye’s STM Defence and Italy’s Fincantieri are competing for the SWATS contract, which could further strengthen Pakistan’s A2/AD strategy.
A Growing Submarine Fleet
The Hangor-class submarines are just the start of Pakistan’s vision to build a more capable military force. Pakistan aims to establish a robust underwater fleet. The plans are to replace the old Agosta-class submarines and create a local submarine model to keep and grow this strength.
By the mid-2030s, Pakistan is likely to have one of the biggest groups of AIP-equipped submarines in the Arabian Sea. This improved fleet will greatly boost the PN’s capacity to protect its sea interests and manage regional risks. Still, keeping up with such large growth will hinge on Pakistan’s financial resources.
Conclusion
The Hangor-class submarines represent a significant shift for the Pakistan Navy. Besides nuclear deterrence, these submarines will serve as key tools for protecting maritime interests and strengthening Pakistan’s defence. As PN works on modernising its fleet, the Hangor Class program showcases its aim: to become a tech-savvy and independent maritime power.
References
- Quwa Defence Analysis Group – Pakistan Navy: The Hangor-Class Submarines Explained
Website: https://quwa.org - Global Times—Pakistan Navy Chief Discusses Submarine Programme
Website: https://www.globaltimes.cn - Naval News—China’s S26 Submarines: A Closer Look at Pakistan’s Fleet Expansion
Website: https://www.navalnews.com
