Islamabad: Pakistan is preparing to launch its first Chinese-built submarine in 2026 as part of a $5 billion defence agreement with China, marking a major step in strengthening its naval power and strategic partnership with Beijing.

The deal, which includes eight Hangor-class diesel-electric submarines, was signed between Pakistan and China in 2015. According to officials, the first four submarines are being built in China, while the remaining four will be assembled in Pakistan to enhance local shipbuilding and technical capabilities.

Pakistan’s naval chief, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, confirmed that the submarine project is progressing smoothly and that the new fleet will significantly boost Pakistan’s ability to protect its maritime interests in the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean.

The

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