Pakistan Navy marked a major advancement in its defense modernization program with the launch of the PNS/M MANGRO submarine in Wuhan, China. The ceremony was organized at the Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group Company Ltd, Shuangliu Base, and attended by senior officials from both Pakistan and China. Vice Admiral Abdul Samad, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff Project-2, presided over the event as Chief Guest of Pakistan Navy.
In his remarks, the Chief Guest underscored the rising significance of maritime security in the region’s evolving geo strategic environment. He stressed that the induction of HANGOR Class Submarines, equipped with cutting edge weapon systems and advanced sensor technology, would ensure maritime stability and regional power balance says Naval News.
Vice Admiral Abdul Samad also acknowledged the role of China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Company Ltd in ensuring smooth progress of the project. He reaffirmed that the program reflects the time tested defense partnership between Pakistan and China, which has grown stronger through long standing collaboration in naval technology and shipbuilding.
As per the agreement signed between the Government of Pakistan and CSOC, a total of eight HANGOR Class submarines will be built. Four of these are under construction in China, while the remaining four will be manufactured at Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works Ltd under a Transfer of Technology program, enhancing local expertise and self reliance in defense production says Times of Islamabad.
The event was attended by senior naval officials, representatives from Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group Company Ltd, and executives of CSOC. The launching of PNS/M MANGRO stands as another milestone in Pakistan China defense cooperation, reinforcing Pakistan’s commitment to securing its maritime frontiers and national interests.
