The Hangor-class is a derivative of the Chinese Type-039A attack submarine and is equipped with an Air Independent Propulsion system. This technology enables conventional diesel-electric submarines to remain submerged for extended durations without surfacing or snorkelling to recharge batteries. By reducing the need to surface, the system significantly lowers vulnerability to detection by unmanned aerial vehicles, maritime patrol aircraft, and surface combatants.
With the induction of eight additional submarines alongside the existing fleet of five, the Pakistan Navy’s total submarine strength is expected to rise to thirteen vessels. Of these, nine submarines will be equipped with Air Independent Propulsion systems, substantially enhancing underwater endurance and operational stealth.
In contrast, the Indian Navy currently operates sixteen conventional attack submarines and three strategic submarines. Its conventional fleet comprises vessels from the Kalvari, Sindhughosh, and Shishumar classes. Out of these, only six Kalvari-class submarines are planned to receive a plug-in Air Independent Propulsion system developed domestically by the Defence Research and Development Organisation.
India’s submarine modernisation programme has faced prolonged delays and shortfalls. The Navy’s 1998 roadmap to induct 24 conventional submarines by 2030 has not been achieved. Instead, only six submarines have been added to the fleet, while four have been decommissioned over the same period.
The long-delayed P-751 procurement programme, valued at approximately 70,000 crore rupees and involving the acquisition of six to nine submarines, has progressed to the stage where Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders and Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems have cleared technical evaluation. However, delivery timelines remain extended, with induction expected to take several years.
This schedule indicates that Project-75 and Project-76 may proceed concurrently. Project-76 submarines are expected to feature a modified Air Independent Propulsion system developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation. Simultaneously, the Indian Navy is pursuing plans under Project-77 for indigenous nuclear-powered attack submarines and is also considering leasing a nuclear attack submarine from Russia. These initiatives, however, remain at developmental or planning stages and are years away from operational deployment.
Despite these delays, the Indian Navy continues to maintain a significant numerical advantage over the Pakistan Navy in overall submarine strength and strategic underwater capability.
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