According to a press release issued by DGPR Navy, Pakistan has commissioned its first Type 054A/P Frigate, PNS TUGHRIL atHudongZhonghua (HZ) Shipyard, China, today on 9th November 2021. Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, MrMoinUlHaq was the chief guest at the occasion.
In the view of the Chinese shipbuilding company, The completion and the delivery of the vessel is quite a major achievement of the China-Pakistan friendship, and will further enhance the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries.
About the TYPE 054 A/P FRIGATE:
As Per Pakistani officials, the Type 054 frigates is a technologically advanced and highly capable platform that has the following significant capabilities:
- Outfitted with cutting-edge combat management and an electronic warfare system
- Advanced self-defense capabilities
- enormous surface-to-surface, surface-to-air, and underwater firepower strength
- Extensive surveillance capabilities.
- can carry out a number of naval warfare operations in a highly intense multi-threat environment
According to CSSC, the frigate is the largest and most advanced warship China has ever exported.
Addressing the event, MrMoinUlHaq said that in the context of the overall security paradigm of the region, TUGHRIL Class Frigates will strengthen Pakistan Navy’s capabilities to respond to maritime challenges to ensure seaward defense, maintain peace, stability, and balance of power in the Indian Ocean Region.
The Ambassador further praised the concerted efforts made by CSSC, CSTC, CSDDC, HZ Shipyard, and PLA (Navy) for the landmark achievement by timely delivery of the well-equipped and potent Frigate despite global pandemic.
The Vice Party Secretary and Director of the Board CSSC Mr. Du Gang also applauded the timely construction of PNS TUGHRIL while emphasizing that commissioning of the ship is a major milestone and a testimony of Pak-China long-lived friendship; as both countries are bound by the affinity of trust, compassion and commonality.
High-level dignitaries from BOMETEC, OIMC, SASTIND, PLA (N), and CSSC besides the Chairman of CSTC & HZ Shipyard and Commander of PLA (N) Shanghai Naval Base along with prominent figures of the Pakistan community in China attended the ceremony.