Pakistan’s chief naval overseers for China and Turkey attended the respective events
Two separate ceremonies were conducted in China and Turkey on the occasion of the keel laying of naval vessels being built for Pakistan. Keel laying is the formal term for the start of construction of a ship. The ceremony in China was held for the 3rd Type-054A Class Frigate at Hudong Zhonghua (HZ) Shipyard Shanghai. In Turkey, it was the 2nd MILGEM Class Corvette that began with keel-laying ceremonies held at Istanbul Naval Shipyard (INSY).
Both ceremonies were attended by the respective Country’s Chief Naval Overseers for Pakistan Navy as chief guests. The events were also attended by executives of involved companies and local dignitaries.
Chief Naval Overseer (China) Commodore Rashid Mehmood Sheikh appreciated the timely progress despite the COVID-19. Type 054 A/P Class Frigate, will be the most technologically advanced surface platform of Pakistan Navy Fleet, fitted with state-of-the-art Surface, Subsurface, and Anti-Air weapons, Combat Management System, and Sensors. These ships will significantly contribute to maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean.
Chief Naval Overseer (Turkey) Commodore Ehsan Ahmed Khan said that the brotherly relations between the countries will grow stronger with such partnerships. Khan also appreciated the dedication from M/s ASFAT, INSY, and the Turkish Ministry of National Defense for staying on schedule despite Covid.
Pakistan Navy has concluded a contract with M/s ASFAT for the construction of 04 x corvettes out of which two are being constructed at Istanbul Naval Shipyard and two at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works. These corvettes will be fitted with state-of-the-art Surface, Sub-Surface, and Anti-Air Weapons & Sensors, integrated through an advanced Network Centric Combat Management System.
These vessels will strengthen Pakistan’s sea power and further enhance the nation’s defense. With the new inductions, our navy will be better placed to counter any aggression from other, larger naval forces.