Image for representation purposes only Pakistan’s first Hangor-class submarine has fired an anti-ship cruise missile in the North Arabian Sea, in its first publicly announced live weapon firing since joining the Pakistan Navy earlier this year. PNS/M Hangor hit a designated long-range target on September 27, Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf watched the firing. Pakistan has not said which missile was used. It has also not given its range, details of the target or the conditions in which the missile was launched. It has not confirmed whether the submarine fired the missile while submerged. The test is part of Pakistan’s plan to build an eight-boat Hangor-class submarine fleet. The submarines are fitted with modern combat systems and sensors, air-independent propulsion (AIP) and enhanced stealth features. The firing gives Pakistan a new submarine-based anti-ship capability in the Arabian Sea. The area is important for both Pakistan and India and is part of the shipping network linking the Middle East, South Asia and East Asia. ISPR said PNS/M Hangor accurately engaged a designated long-range target with an anti-ship cruise missile. Admiral Ashraf said stronger underwater capabilities were important for Pakistan’s operational readiness and maritime deterrence. ISPR said the exercise showed the Pakistan Navy’s commitment to maintaining a modern and combat-ready force to protect Pakistan’s maritime frontiers and regional peace. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also congratulated the navy and its leadership. Sharif said the successful strike showed the readiness, professional skills and combat capability of the navy’s submarine force. He also said the government remained committed to keeping the armed forces ready to deal with national security challenges. The firing confirms that Hangor and its crew have completed a live missile engagement against a designated target. It does not, however, show how the sub