Pakistan Navy's Khalid Class Attack Submarine

Pakistan Navy's Khalid Class Attack Submarines: A Comprehensive Overview

The Pakistan Navy's Khalid Class submarines are a crucial pillar of the nation's underwater defense capabilities. These French-built Agosta-90B class submarines have significantly enhanced Pakistan's naval power. Let's take a detailed look at the complete specifications, features, and operational capabilities of these submarines.

Basic Information on Khalid Class Submarines

The Khalid Class submarines are an important part of the Pakistan Navy, incorporated into the fleet in the late 1990s. Currently, the Pakistan Navy operates three French-built Agosta-90B submarines, named PNS Khalid, PNS Saad, and PNS Hamza.

Technical Specifications

Design and Construction

The Khalid Class submarines operate on a diesel-electric system, which allows them to conduct operations underwater with extreme stealth. Their design incorporates special low-noise systems that help them evade enemy sensors.

Power and Speed

These submarines can generate up to 20,000 HP (15,000 kW) of power and can travel at a speed of 12 knots (22 km/h) on the surface and 20 knots (37 km/h) underwater.

Depth Capability

Khalid Class submarines are capable of operating at depths of up to 350 meters (1,150 feet), making them a strong contender compared to other submarines in the region.

Weapon Systems

Khalid Class submarines are equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry:

* Torpedoes: These submarines are fitted with 533 mm torpedo tubes capable of firing various types of torpedoes.

* Cruise Missiles: They have the capability to fire the Babar sea-launched land-attack cruise missile, which strengthens Pakistan's second-strike capability.

* Mines: If required, these submarines can also lay naval mines.

Operational Capabilities

Autonomy

Khalid Class submarines can operate continuously for several weeks. These submarines can travel up to 8,000 nautical miles (15,000 km) at a speed of 8 knots (15 km/h).

Stealth Capability

The design of these submarines specifically focuses on low noise and low thermal signatures, which helps them evade enemy sensors.

AIP (Air-Independent Propulsion) Technology

Although the initial Khalid Class submarines were not equipped with AIP technology, the Pakistan Navy later upgraded them. Now, these submarines are equipped with an advanced AIP system, which allows them to remain submerged for 10 to 14 days continuously, whereas traditional diesel submarines can only remain submerged for 48 hours.

Design and Construction
The Khalid Class submarines operate on a diesel-electric system, which allows them to conduct operations underwater with extreme stealth. Their design incorporates special low-noise systems that help them evade enemy sensors.
Power and Speed
These submarines can generate up to 20,000 HP (15,000 kW) of power and can travel at a speed of 12 knots (22 km/h) on the surface and 20 knots (37 km/h) underwater.
Depth Capability
Khalid Class submarines are capable of operating at depths of up to 350 meters (1,150 feet), making them a strong contender compared to other submarines in the region.
Weapon Systems
Khalid Class submarines are equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry:
* Torpedoes: These submarines are fitted with 533 mm torpedo tubes capable of firing various types of torpedoes.
* Cruise Missiles: They have the capability to fire the Babar sea-launched land-attack cruise missile, which strengthens Pakistan's second-strike capability.
* Mines: If required, these submarines can also lay naval mines.
Operational Capabilities
Autonomy
Khalid Class submarines can operate continuously for several weeks. These submarines can travel up to 8,000 nautical miles (15,000 km) at a speed of 8 knots (15 km/h).
Stealth Capability
The design of these submarines specifically focuses on low noise and low thermal signatures, which helps them evade enemy sensors.
AIP (Air-Independent Propulsion) Technology
Although the initial Khalid Class submarines were not equipped with AIP technology, the Pakistan Navy later upgraded them. Now, these submarines are equipped with an advanced AIP system, which allows them to remain submerged for 10 to 14 days continuously, whereas traditional diesel submarines can only remain submerged for 48 hours.

This technology provides Pakistan with a clear military advantage in the region and has given the Pakistan Navy a significant edge over the Indian Navy.

Future of Khalid Class Submarines

The Pakistan Navy is continuously working to strengthen its underwater fleet. According to reports, by 2028, the Pakistan Navy will have 11 air-independent submarines, including 8 new Hangor Class submarines and 3 upgraded Agosta-90B submarines (Khalid Class).

Conclusion

The Pakistan Navy's Khalid Class submarines are a vital part of the nation's naval defense capabilities. Their advanced technology, long-term submerged endurance, and powerful weapon systems have played a significant role in making Pakistan a strong naval power in the region. With the future addition of the Hangor Class submarines, Pakistan's underwater combat capabilities will be further strengthened, proving to be a crucial asset for the nation's security and defense.