he Pakistan Navy recently marked a significant milestone with the addition of two cutting-edge vessels: the MILGEM Class Corvette PNS Babur and the Offshore Patrol Vessel PNS Hunain. The induction ceremony, held at the PN Dockyard in Karachi, was attended by President Asif Ali Zardari, who served as the Chief Guest.
Vessel Details and Commissioning
- PNS Babur: This multipurpose corvette was built and commissioned at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard on September 23, 2023. It represents a significant advancement in naval technology and capabilities.
- PNS Hunain: An Offshore Patrol Vessel, the PNS Hunain was constructed and commissioned at DAMEN Shipyard in Romania on July 25, 2024. It is designed to enhance the Navy’s operational reach and versatility.
President Zardari’s Address
In his address, President Zardari underscored the strategic importance of a robust naval force given the evolving geo-strategic landscape of the Indian Ocean. He commended the induction of these advanced vessels as a crucial development for the Pakistan Navy, enhancing its ability to tackle both conventional and unconventional threats. The President officially handed over the ships’ scrolls to the Commander Pakistan Fleet, marking their formal entry into the PN Fleet.
Remarks by the Chief of Naval Staff
The Chief of Naval Staff highlighted the significance of these new additions, describing them as a major advancement in the Navy’s capabilities. He expressed gratitude for the government’s support and acknowledged the contributions of M/s ASFAT, Istanbul Shipyard, DAMEN Shipyard Galati Romania, and the project team for their efforts.
Features and Future Role
The newly inducted vessels are equipped with state-of-the-art weapons, sensors, and machinery, positioning them to serve the Pakistan Navy effectively for years to come. The ceremony was attended by notable figures including Turkey’s Deputy Minister of National Defence, Bilal Burdali, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, and various senior military and political leaders.
This event underscores the Pakistan Navy’s ongoing commitment to modernizing its fleet and enhancing its operational capabilities in response to regional and global maritime challenges.
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