Expansion of Pakistan–China Defence Partnership
Under a $5 billion defence agreement between Pakistan and China, Pakistan will acquire eight Hangor-class (Type 039A Yuan-class) diesel-electric submarines equipped with Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology. Of these, four submarines are being built in China, while the remaining four are under construction at the Karachi Shipyard. The first submarine is expected to enter service by 2026, and all eight submarines are scheduled for delivery by 2028. This collaboration highlights the deepening maritime defence cooperation between the two countries.
Advanced Capabilities of Hangor-Class Submarines
The Hangor-class submarines come equipped with modern sensors, advanced weapon systems, and AIP technology, enabling them to stay submerged for nearly three weeks without surfacing.
In contrast, traditional diesel-electric submarines must surface every few days to recharge their batteries.
With AIP technology, however, Pakistan’s submarines can operate silently and undetected for extended periods, enhancing its “Anti-Access/Area-Denial (A2/AD)” strategy in the Arabian Sea. This technological edge provides Pakistan with a significant asymmetric advantage in undersea warfare.
Delays in India’s Conventional Submarine Program
India’s current conventional submarine fleet includes:
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Six Scorpène-class submarines (built with French collaboration),
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Six Kilo-class submarines (of Russian origin), and
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Four HDW-class submarines (German design).
India’s long-pending Project-75I, which aims to build six AIP-equipped submarines based on German technology, was approved in 2007 but has yet to begin construction. With an estimated cost exceeding ₹70,000 crore, the project — even if launched now — may take up to eight years for the first submarine to be commissioned.
🧾 Exam-Oriented Facts
Hangor-class submarines are based on China’s Type 039A Yuan-class design.
The total cost of the project is approximately $5 billion.
India’s Project-75I was approved in 2007, but construction has not yet begun.
AIP-equipped Hangor-class submarines will significantly enhance Pakistan’s A2/AD capabilities.
A New Balance of Naval Power in South Asia
Although India possesses P-8I maritime patrol aircraft, MH-60R anti-submarine helicopters, and advanced ASW warships, Pakistan’s new Hangor-class submarines — potentially capable of carrying Babur-3 nuclear-capable cruise missiles — could reshape the traditional naval power balance in the region.
This development marks a major shift in South Asia’s maritime security architecture, as Pakistan, with continued Chinese support, strengthens its strategic deterrence and undersea warfare capabilities.
