Pakistan Navy celebrated a significant milestone with the induction of two state-of-the-art vessels: the MILGEM Class Corvette PNS Babur and the Offshore Patrol Vessel PNS Hunain. The ceremony, held at the PN Dockyard Karachi, was graced by President Asif Ali Zardari as the Chief Guest. The PNS Babur, a multipurpose ship, was built and commissioned at Istanbul Naval Shipyard on September 23, 2023. The PNS Hunain, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, was constructed and commissioned at DAMEN Shipyard in Romania on July 25, 2024.
President Zardari highlighted the challenging geo-strategic environment in the Indian Ocean, emphasizing the necessity of a formidable naval force to address both traditional and non-traditional threats. He praised the induction of these advanced ships as a milestone achievement, reinforcing the Pakistan Navy’s capability to meet expanding operational demands. President Zardari formally handed over the ships’ scrolls to the Commander Pakistan Fleet, marking their official entry into the PN Fleet. Chief of the Naval Staff, in his welcome speech, described the inclusion of these ships as a major step in enhancing the Navy’s capacity. He acknowledged the government’s support and praised the efforts of M/s ASFAT, Istanbul Shipyard, DAMEN Shipyard Galati Romania, and the project team for their contributions.
The ships, equipped with advanced weapons, sensors, and machinery, are expected to serve the Pakistan Navy effectively for years to come. The ceremony was attended by Deputy Minister of National Defence of Turkey Bilal Burdali, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Chief of the Naval Staff, senior representatives from the construction yards, political leaders, and high-ranking military officials.
