In a significant move to bolster its naval capabilities, Pakistan has formally commissioned its second state-of-the-art MILGEM class warship acquired from its strategic partner, Türkiye. The commissioning ceremony for the vessel, named PNS Khaibar, was held in Istanbul on Sunday, marking a key milestone in the bilateral defence collaboration between the two nations.
Strengthening the Pakistan Navy's Fleet
The newly inducted PNS Khaibar is the second of four Babur-class corvettes being constructed for the Pakistan Navy under the MILGEM (Milli Gemi) project. This project represents one of the largest defence export ventures for Türkiye. The first ship of the class, PNS Babur, was commissioned in 2023 and is already serving as a flagship vessel.
The commissioning event in Istanbul was a high-profile affair, underscoring the deep strategic partnership. The vessel was handed over to the Pakistan Navy at the Istanbul Shipyard, with senior officials from both countries in attendance to mark the occasion.
Technical Prowess of the Babur-Class Corvettes
These modern warships are equipped with advanced weaponry and sensors, making them a formidable addition to any naval force. The Babur-class corvettes are multi-mission platforms capable of undertaking a wide range of operations. Their key features include:
- Anti-surface warfare capabilities to engage enemy ships.
- Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) systems to detect and counter underwater threats.
- Advanced air defence systems for protection against aerial attacks.
- Stealth-oriented design to reduce radar signature.
The construction of these ships involves a collaborative process. While the first two vessels were built in Turkish shipyards, the remaining two are being constructed at the Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works (KSEW) in Pakistan. This technology transfer is a crucial aspect of the deal, enhancing Pakistan's indigenous shipbuilding capacity.
A Strategic Partnership with Broader Implications
The delivery and commissioning of PNS Khaibar is more than just a transfer of military hardware; it is a testament to the evolving and deepening defence ties between Islamabad and Ankara. This partnership is viewed as a counterbalance to regional dynamics and enhances maritime security in the Arabian Sea and surrounding regions.
The MILGEM project is a cornerstone of Pakistan Navy's modernization plans, aimed at replacing older vessels and ensuring the force remains capable of safeguarding the nation's maritime interests. The induction of these corvettes will significantly boost the navy's operational readiness and blue-water capabilities.
With two ships now in active service and two more under construction in Karachi, the Pakistan Navy is steadily advancing towards completing this critical fleet upgrade. The successful collaboration on the MILGEM project sets a positive precedent for future joint defence initiatives between Türkiye and Pakistan, reinforcing a partnership built on mutual strategic interests and trust.
