8 ‘Shark’ Submarines to be Inducted into Pakistan Navy

The Pakistan Navy hopes to induct its first Chinese-designed submarine next year, i.e. in 2026, Pakistan Navy Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf told Chinese state media.

In an interview with the Global Times, he said that the deal to induct eight Shark-class submarines into the Pakistan Navy by 2028 is progressing smoothly.

Admiral Ashraf also said that the successful commissioning of the second and third submarines in China earlier this year will be a major milestone in the naval cooperation between the two countries.

He believes that the project will not only enhance the submarine capability of the Pakistan Navy, but also contribute to self-reliance through technology transfer and skill development at the Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works.

The Pakistan Navy chief considers the Type 054A/P frigates as another major achievement in the China-Pakistan naval cooperation. In his words, they are “one of the most modern surface combatants.”

“These platforms are playing a key role in ensuring maritime security in the North Arabian Sea and the greater Indian Ocean region, which is also very important for the global economy,” he added.

Pakistan has already launched three submarines in the Yangtze River in China’s Hubei province. In this context, Admiral Ashraf said, “The Chinese technology-based platforms and equipment are reliable, technologically advanced and compatible with the needs of the Pakistan Navy. The performance of these equipment and the experience of technical support are also very positive.”

The Pakistan Navy is giving importance to these technologies because the nature of modern warfare is changing. Now unmanned technology, artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced electronic warfare systems are becoming increasingly important.

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Pakistan purchased more than 60 percent of China's arms exports in the 2020-2024 period, making it Beijing's largest defense customer.

On future China-Pakistan naval cooperation, Admiral Ashraf said, "The China-Pakistan Navy relationship is based on long-standing friendship, mutual respect, trust and shared strategic interests. This relationship will expand further in the coming decade. Together, we want to ensure a safe and stable maritime environment that supports regional peace and prosperity."