KARACHI: The keel-laying ceremony of Fast Attack Craft (Missile) No 4 being built for Pakistan Navy was held at Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works (KS&EW) in Karachi on Thursday.
Naval Staff Chief Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah was the chief guest on the occasion.
The naval chief appreciated the timely achievement of an important construction milestone of the vessel and showed confidence that the KS&EW and the PN will continue to play a vital role in achieving the national goal of self-reliance in the national shipbuilding industry.
Zakaullah said, “This project once completed, will demonstrate Maritime Technologies Complex and Karachi Shipyard’s design and construction capability in entirety”.
Highlighting Pakistan’s geostrategic importance, Admiral Zakaullah asserted that induction of these vessels would not only enhance operational capability of Pakistan Navy but also go a long way in ensuring maritime peace and stability in the region.
The naval chief also highlighted the significance of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) for enhancing regional trade activity with Gwadar Port as the focal point.
He added completion of CPEC would be a game changer with economic dividends not only for China and Pakistan but also for the entire region.
“Providing a safe and secure maritime environment is pivotal for the success of CPEC and that Pakistan Navy is fully committed to this onerous task and a number of steps have been taken towards this end. The 4th of the FAC (M) and MPVs, once fully operational, will contribute significantly towards ensuring maritime security in the area”, he concluded.
