KARACHI – Steel Cutting ceremony of fourth MILGEM Class Corvettes for Pakistan Navy was held at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works (KS&EW), Pakistan. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi graced the occasion as Chief Guest.
The event marked an important milestone in the construction schedule for fourth MILGEM Corvette for PN. Pakistan Navy has concluded contract with M/s ASFAT for construction of 04 x corvettes out of which two are being constructed at Istanbul Naval Shipyard whereas the remaining two at Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works. These corvettes will be fitted with state-of-art Surface, Sub-Surface and Anti-Air Weapons & Sensors, integrated through an advanced Network Centric Combat Management System.
Speaking at the occasion, the Chief of the Naval Staff expressed that it is a matter of pride to witness the Steel Cutting of the fourth PN MILGEM Corvettes at KS&EW. He added that it is a historic occasion as the Ministry of Defence Production, Pakistan Navy, Karachi Shipyard, and M/s ASFAT of Turkey have joined hands for the construction of this Corvette. The Admiral in his address said that today’s event is a defining moment to further cement the bond of friendship between the two strategically aligned nations with common shared values, culture, and principles. The naval Chief acknowledged the commitment and dedication of KS&EW and M/s ASFAT for meeting the challenging construction schedule despite the ongoing global pandemic.
The induction of MILGEM Corvettes will significantly enhance the maritime defense and deterrence capabilities of the Pakistan Navy. These corvettes will become a core element of PN’s kinetic response to traditional and non-traditional challenges and maintain the balance of power in the Indian Ocean Region.
