Tech Desk 
Nov 03, 2025
In a significant move to equip Pakistan's coastal frontiers with Chinese technological prowess, the Pakistan Navy is reportedly expecting its first Chinese-designed submarine to begin operations next year.
This deployment of a Chinese submarine supports Beijing's efforts to counter regional rival India and extend its influence towards the Middle East, according to Admiral Naveed Ashraf.
Under a deal for eight Hangor-class submarines, expected to be delivered by 2028, Admiral Ashraf stated that progress is "smooth," enhancing Pakistan's patrol capabilities in the North Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean.
This update follows the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) successfully utilising Chinese-made J-10 fighter jets in May to take down Indian Air Force aircraft, including French Rafales.
Pakistan's submarine agreement with China, valued at approximately $5 billion, includes the construction of the first four diesel-electric attack submarines in China and the assembly of the remaining vessels in Pakistan to bolster local technical expertise.
Pakistan has launched three submarines from a shipyard in China's Hubei province.
Ashraf highlighted the reliability and technological advancement of Chinese military platforms, noting the importance of emerging technologies like unmanned systems and AI in modern warfare.
Having acquired over 60% of China's weapon exports from 2020 to 2024, Pakistan has historically been a major arms customer for Beijing.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), part of President Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Initiative, is expected to secure energy routes from the Middle East in a bid to enhance strategic ties between the two nations.
