Pakistan Navy launched its third Hangor-class submarine in Wuhan, Central China's Hubei Province.
Vice Admiral Abdul Samad, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff Project-2, who was the chief guest at the launching ceremony, said Pakistan Navy remains fully committed to defending national interests while fostering a secure and cooperative maritime environment.
Global Times quoted a Chinese expert as saying that this stealthy, highly mobile submarine with advanced enduranace and firepower "represents a high level of China-Pakistan defence cooperation."
Highlighting the cutting-edge weaponry and advanced sensors of the Hangor-class submarines, Vice Admiral Samad said these would be instrumental in sustaining regional power equilibrium and ensuring maritime stability.
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Hangor-class submarine initiative would bring a fresh dimension to the enduring, time-honoured partnership between Pakistan and China, he added.
Pakistan signed an agreement with China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Company Ltd (CSOC) to acquire eight Hangor Class submarines. Under the contract, four submarines are being built in China, while the remaining will be constructed in Pakistan under the transfer of technology programme.
Chinese military affairs expert Zhang Junshe was quoted as saying that this submarine has strong underwater combat capabilities, stealth characteristics, high mobility, long endurance and formidable firepower.
According to him, the submarine cooperation highlights a high level of strategic mutual trust and deep friendship between China and Pakistan.