New Delhi, Oct. 14 -- Pakistan's first Hangor-class submarine has crossed an important threshold by moving from acquisition and induction toward operational use. On September 27, PNS/M Hangor conducted its maiden live-weapon firing in the North Arabian Sea, successfully engaging a designated long-range target with an anti-ship cruise missile. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf witnessed the firing and highlighted the submarine's combat capability and its importance for Pakistan's maritime deterrence.

The test does not mean Pakistan has suddenly closed the naval gap with India. India retains a larger and more diversified fleet, a broader naval-industrial base, and an expanding anti-submarine warfare capability. But the firing ...