Warship PNS-Tariq inducted into Pak Navy fleet

KARACHI: Warship PNS-Tariq, a MILGEM Class Corvette, jointly developed by Pakistan and Turkiye, was officially commissioned into the Pakistan Navy on Wednesday.

The inauguration ceremony took place at the Karachi Shipyard and was attended by several dignitaries, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Turkiye Vice President Sewdat Yilmaz, and Naval Chief Amjad Khan Niazi. Together, they marked the ship’s entry into service by pressing a button.

Also Read: Turkish VP arrives Karachi for PNS Tariq launch

Under the agreement signed between Pakistan and Turkiye defense company Ms ASFAT on September 6, 2018, for the construction of four Miljum-class corvettes, the PNS Tariq is one of two ships produced at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard and Karachi Shipyard.

This advanced warship boasts impressive capabilities, capable of detecting and engaging medium-sized targets using surface-to-surface missiles and main guns. Additionally, it is equipped with sophisticated sensors that can detect surface, underwater, and aerial targets.

With both offensive and defensive weapons on board, the PNS Tariq is well-equipped to engage a wide range of targets. The ship also has the capability to accommodate a helicopter for enhanced operational capabilities.

The Prime Minister earlier attended the launching ceremony of the third Naval Corvette, PNS Khyber, in Istanbul, in November last year.

The first two Corvettes, PNS Babur and PNS Badar were launched in Istanbul and Karachi, in August 2021 and May 2022 respectively.

The MILGEM project represents an enduring symbol of Pakistan-Turkiye collaboration in the maritime domain.

It is a tangible step towards self-reliance and indigenization and would fulfill the critical security needs of Pakistan Navy.