Pakistan, China collaborate for construction of advanced warship

The launching ceremony for the third type of frigate was held in Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard, Shanghai China. In the initial deal, Pakistan and China cooperated on two types, but later in 2018 two more were added to the contract.

The first two are in active use for sea trials. Spokesperson Navy highlighted that these frigates are by far the most technologically advanced additions to Pakistan’s naval fleet. The production is completed in China and by the year-end safely delivered to the recipient.

Field experts emphasize these frigates’ capability in leveling up Pakistan’s current naval power, and that these new additions are a powerful equalizer for the stability of the Indian Ocean. These multi-mission frigates boast the latest surface, sub-surface, and anti-air weapon systems. The advanced warship is fitted with the state of the art acoustic and surveillance sensors, and a neat combat management mechanism.

This frigate is an integral element of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) with a length of 134 meters, a beam of 16 meters for a displacement of 4,000 tons, fitted with torpedo launchers, 30mm CIWS, C803 anti-ship missiles, VLS cells for HQ-16 surface to air missiles, and a H/PJ-26 76mm main gun.

Despite tensions over the recent bus attack on Chinese citizens, Pakistan and China continue to shape their relations from a cooperative lens, owing to the proximity of their relations.

Hosting the flagship Belt and Road Initiative project (CPEC), maintaining regional cooperation in Afghanistan, and deep diving in counter-terrorism cooperation via the Shanghai Cooperation are just a few examples of this iron brotherhood.

Pakistan’s attempts to modernize its naval fleet are fuelled by the future challenges it is to meet. Apart from Chinese warships, Pakistan is also looking forward to procuring corvettes from the Netherlands and Turkey.