The Pakistan Navy’s fourth F22P frigate was launched on Thursday at an impressive ceremony that was held at the Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works (KSEW). Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Noman Bashir was the chief guest at the launching ceremony. The launched vessel is the fourth F22P frigate built indigenously at the KSEW with the assistance of Chinese engineers and technicians.
The previous frigates – PNS Zulfiqar, PNS Shamsher and PNS Saif – were built in China. Admiral Noman Bashir said that the launching of the F22P frigate at the KSEW is a commendable accomplishment and a manifestation of the indigenous policy of the government, especially for attaining self-reliance in maritime defence capabilities.
Acknowledging the efforts of Pakistani and Chinese engineers and technicians for the construction of the F22P frigate, he congratulated the China State Shipbuilding Company, the China Shipbuilding and Trading Company, Hudong Zhongua and the KSEW for launching the ship as per schedule. Admiral Noman Bashir said that the occasion is yet another example of unparallel Pak-China relations that were founded on a strong footing.
He said that launching the warship is an important milestone that has not only further strengthened Pakistan’s relations with its Chinese friends, but has also added colour and eminence to the celebration of Pak-China’s resounding friendship of 60 years.
