HANGOR CLASS SUBMARINE -
DEFENCE AND SECURITY
News: China launches first of the 8
Hangor-class submarine built for Pakistan
What's in the news?
●
Pakistan recently launched the Hangor class
submarine (built by China) at a Wuhan shipyard.
Key takeaways:
●
This was the first of eight submarines that the
Pakistan Navy is set to induct into its fleet by 2028.
Hangor Class Submarine:
●
The Hangor-class, an export variant of the Chinese Type 039A Yuan class, is a
diesel-electric attack submarine named after PNS Hangor (now
decommissioned), which famously sank Indian frigate INS Khukri during 1971 war.
Basic Characteristics:
●
It boasts four diesel engines, is equipped with an Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system
to increase its endurance underwater, and has six 21-inch torpedo tubes.
●
It is capable of launching anti-ship missiles, as well as the Babur-3 subsonic cruise missile
(with 450 km range).
Comparison with India’s
Kalavari Class:
1. Size:
●
The Hangor class is significantly bigger in size than the Kalavari class
which is based on the French Scorpene-class, but the small size makes the Kalavari class much more maneuverable.
2. Speed:
●
Both the submarines have the same top speed of 20 knots (37 kmph).
3. Air Independent
Propulsion System:
●
Kalavari class doesn't come with built-in AIP as the Hangor. This matters because submarines’ USP is their ability to be stealthy,
which comes from their capability of remaining underwater for extended time
periods.
○
An AIP system can increase submarines’ underwater
endurance manifold (upwards of 15-20 days).
4. Armaments:
●
In terms of armament, Kalavari class carries six 21
inch, German-made torpedoes, and missile systems like French Exocet anti-ship
missiles, and MICA anti-air missiles.
○
This is likely superior, and more battle tested
than Hangor’s armament.
5. Other Key Takeaways:
●
Both submarines don’t have vertical launch systems (like the ones in India’s nuclear Arihant class), which would allow it to
carry bigger cruise missiles.
●
Both submarine classes carry state of art sensor
suites, although details of Hangor’s capabilities are not known yet.