Massive welcome from Pakistani civilians as China-made "Hanguo" submarine arrives in Karachi, Pakistan fully shifts toward Chinese weaponry!
After China delivered the first "Qilin"-class (known as "Hanguo"-class in Pakistan) conventional submarine, the "Hanguo," to the Pakistan Navy by late April this year, the Pakistani Navy sailed the vessel on a journey combining drills and port visits. Finally, on June 11 local time, the "Hanguo" submarine arrived at the port of Karachi, where Pakistan held a grand welcoming ceremony upon its arrival.
As seen, large crowds of Pakistani civilians enthusiastically greeted the submarine onshore, while multiple helicopters flew alongside it in the air and fast patrol boats circled around it at sea. Throughout the journey, the Pakistan Navy’s already operational 054A/P frigate "Taimur" and F22P frigate "Asrath" provided constant escort (both frigates were also built by China), clearly demonstrating Pakistan's high regard for this submarine.
It is reported that Pakistan’s procurement of the "Hanguo"-class submarines from China includes an AIP (Air-Independent Propulsion) system, making it a foreign export version of the Type 039B. This submarine ranks among the most powerful in its class globally. Pakistan has ordered a total of eight "Hanguo"-class submarines (with a contract value ranging from $4 to $5 billion), with the first four built in China and the remaining four assembled domestically in Pakistan under transferred technology.
Following the delivery of the first "Hanguo"-class submarine, it can be said that the Pakistan Navy—along with its main frigates, submarines, and even the entire Pakistan Armed Forces—has fully embraced Chinese weaponry. Of course, having tasted the benefits, Pakistan is extremely pleased...
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1867775386729476/
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