Pakistan’s Navy has taken a significant lead over India in Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, with further progress expected.

According to reports, the Pakistan Navy has overtaken the Indian Navy in adopting AIP technology, with Chinese-built Hangor-class submarines set to join the fleet as per the schedule.

India’s recent addition of the sixth and final submarine in the P-75 Scorpene project, along with a stealth frigate and guided missile destroyer, is still behind Pakistan’s capabilities.

Despite this, India’s navy remains without submarines equipped with modern technology, while Pakistan has already integrated three French-made Agosta-90B submarines (PNS Khalid, Saad and Hamza) into its fleet.

The Hangor-class submarines, manufactured in China, are expected to join the Pakistan Navy in the early 2030s, bringing the total number of AIP-equipped submarines to 11.

These submarines are expected to significantly enhance Pakistan’s underwater naval capabilities.

Pakistan’s naval expansion plan includes an increase in its fleet to 50 warships, which will include 20 larger vessels, frigates and corvettes. At the same time, Pakistan is developing a robust submarine fleet, which will consist of 11 submarines.

Admiral Naveed Ashraf, chief of the Pakistan Navy, told Chinese media that the construction of four Hangor-class submarines is progressing on schedule.

“These submarines will significantly enhance Pakistan’s naval capabilities, enabling the navy to conduct various operations with powerful weapons,” he said.

“The project is moving forward on track and we expect these submarines to become part of the Pakistan Navy’s fleet soon,” added Admiral Ashraf.