August 17, 2025

In a dazzling display of military teamwork, China has delivered the third of eight advanced Hangor-class submarines to Pakistan! The exciting launch ceremony took place in Wuhan, Central China's Hubei province, on August 16, 2025. This move is part of Beijing's ambitious plan to boost Pakistan’s naval powers and help it carve a bigger role in the Indian Ocean – right in India’s own backyard. Remember, Pakistan already got the second submarine this March, adding to the growing muscle. Alongside these submarines, China has also gifted Pakistan four modern naval frigates in recent years. Why? To support Pakistan amid China’s expanding naval presence in the Arabian Sea and prepare to protect the important Gwadar port in Balochistan. At the launch, Vice Admiral Abdul Samad, Pakistan’s Deputy Chief of Naval Staff Project-2, shared big hopes: "The Hangor-class submarine's cutting-edge weaponry and advanced sensors would be instrumental in sustaining regional power equilibrium and ensuring maritime stability," his words were reported by Pakistani defence sources. What makes Hangor-class special? Zhang Junshe, a Chinese military expert, told the Global Times it shines with strong underwater combat skills, stealthy moves, long endurance, and killer firepower – a real underwater warrior! China isn’t just making submarines for Pakistan. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), over 81% of Pakistan’s military gear comes from China. Check this out: Pakistan recently got its first spy ship, “Rizwan,” more than 600 VT-4 battle tanks, and 36 J-10CE fighter jets. The J-10CE jets arrived in 2022, joining the already powerful JF-17 fighters co-built by both nations. Pakistan even used these jets in its recent conflict with India. With China’s strong support and new high-tech submarines prowling the deep, Pakistan's navy is gearing up to be a major player in the rough waters of the Indian Ocean. India, watch out – the waves are getting choppier!

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Tags: Pakistan navy, China navy, Hangor-class submarine, Indian ocean, Military upgrade, China-pakistan ties,