PN has been interested in boomers for quite sometime, but it has to be a top tier product for PN to induct it.
They have been working on a miniature reactor, for quite some time. Within the next 12 ~ 18 months
(or earlier) it will be ready for installation.
Hull: There are a couple of options:
1) To build one themselves from scratch.
2) Import pre-built sections, and assemble both foreign and domestic tech as per their requirement.
3) Have the hull built in China and have an indigenous Pakistani reactor installed.
4) Lease a sub from China, and gain capability ASAP.
Now lets explore each option in detail:
Option 1
This would be a time consuming process, with a very steep learning curve. Best to avoid it.
Before people start screaming we built the Agousta90B, please keep in mind. that assembly and manufacturing, are two different things.
Option 2
This advantage of this option would be that it will allow a very high degree of customization. But the drawback is the time required, and the "know how" could prove to be an impediment.
Option 3
This would be the shortest route to gaining a semi indigenous capability. At the same time the Pakistani reactor would also give Chinese designers something to improve upon, further cementing ties.
Option 4
PN has operated subs for more than four decades. But operating a nuclear sub is slightly different. Given the level of cooperation between PLAAF and PLA, and how PAF pilots have not only flown PLAAF aircrafts but changed their strategies and op-doctrine, it would be naive to think that this level of cooperation does not exist between the PN & PLAN. It would be safe to assume that PN personnel have spent time on PLAN nuclear subs, and are not only aware of op and tac issues, but fully understand them and have contributed +ve'ly to them.
This would be a game changer and would give PN an overnight capability, while PN exercises Option 2 or 3.
@Rashid Mahmood @The Eagle @war&peace @Horus Your comments please.