Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has commended the unparalleled performance of Pakistan Navy’s submarine Hangor during the 1971 war with India. In his message on Hangor Day, he emphasized that in 1971, the officers of the Pakistan Navy, through their courage, bravery, and valour, immortalized the protection of Pakistan’s maritime borders in the nation’s history.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister noted that the people of Pakistan take immense pride in the officers and crew of the Pakistan Navy, as well as in invaluable assets such as the Hangor submarine. He further stated that throughout history, the Pakistan Navy has thwarted enemy attacks with fearless and unmatched performance, enhancing the honour and dignity of the nation.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed that Pakistan has always aspired to regional and international peace and coexistence, while maintaining a strong resolve to keep the defense of the homeland robust and secure. He highlighted that December 9 serves as a reminder to adversaries that Pakistan’s maritime borders are vigilantly protected.

Meanwhile, Hangor Day is being observed today to commemorate the historic 1971 engagement in which the Pakistan Navy submarine Hangor successfully sank the Indian frigate INS Khukri and crippled INS Kirpan. In his message, Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf stated that the Pakistan Navy places special emphasis on its sub-surface offensive capability, and its ongoing submarine acquisition programme with China supports this vision.

He mentioned that the induction of eight HANGOR Class submarines will significantly boost the country’s offensive capabilities and provide operational flexibility to the Pakistan Navy.