Pakistan plans to deploy the newly commissioned Hangor-class submarine PNS Hangor into the Bay of Bengal [1, 2].

This move marks a significant shift in regional naval strategy, as it would establish a Pakistani military presence in the Bay of Bengal for the first time since 1971 [2]. The deployment reflects warming diplomatic relations between Islamabad and Dhaka and serves as a counter to regional naval competition [1, 2].

The PNS Hangor was commissioned in China in April 2026 [5] and arrived in Karachi in early June 2026 [6]. The vessel is part of a larger procurement plan in which Pakistan intends to acquire eight Hangor-class submarines [4].

Technical specifications for the class indicate a submerged displacement of approximately 3,600 tons [1] and a length of 66 meters [1]. The submarine operates with a crew of around 35 personnel [1].

Senior naval officers said the strategic objective is to expand Pakistan's naval footprint within the Indian Ocean region [1]. The deployment of the PNS Hangor signals an ambition to project power beyond traditional coastal waters, a move that aligns with shifting geopolitical ties in South Asia [1, 2].

“Pakistan plans to deploy the newly commissioned Hangor-class submarine PNS Hangor into the Bay of Bengal”

The potential deployment of a sophisticated Chinese-made submarine into the Bay of Bengal alters the naval balance of power in the Indian Ocean. By establishing a presence in waters it has not occupied since the 1971 conflict, Pakistan is leveraging improved ties with Bangladesh to challenge regional hegemony and increase its strategic depth.