Construction of third Type-054A frigate and third MILGEM class corvette for Pakistan Navy begins
Formal construction of third Type-054A Class Frigate and third MILGEM Class Corvette began with keel-laying ceremonies held at Hudong Zhonghua (HZ) Shipyard Shanghai, China, and Istanbul Naval Shipyard (INSY), Turkey respectively.
The country’s Chief Naval Overseers participated in both events. The ceremonies were also attended by shipbuilding companies’ executives and local dignitaries from both countries.
Chief Naval Overseer (China) Commodore Rashid Mehmood Sheikh applauded the timely accomplishment of the keel laying milestone of the ship even with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. The chief guest appreciated CSTC/ HZ Shipyard for their efforts.
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, Sub-surface and Anti-Air weapons, Combat Management systems, and Sensors. These ships will significantly contribute to maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean.
Chief Naval Overseer (Turkey) Commodore Ehsan Ahmed Khan was the chief guest for the Keel Laying ceremony of the MILGEM Class Corvette for Pakistan Navy, held in Turkey. He mentioned the brotherly relations between the countries. Khan also acknowledged the commitment and dedication shown by M/s ASFAT, INSY, and the Turkish Ministry of National Defense for meeting the challenging construction schedule despite Covid-19.
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.
The induction of these new vessels will certainly strengthen the navy and help further with the countries defense. They should also help address the balance of power in the Indian Ocean.