Beijing, 25 December 2021 (TDI): On 24 December 2021, the launching ceremony of the 4th ship of Type-054 A/P class frigate, constructed for the Pakistan Navy, was held at Hudong Zhonghua (HZ) Shipyard, Shanghai, China.
Out of the four frigates, the first Type-054 A/P ship namely PNS Tughril has been handed over to Pakistan. Type-054 A/P frigates are considered to be one the most advanced surface platforms of the Pakistan Navy Fleet on technological grounds.
They are developed with the latest surface, subsurface, anti-air weapon systems, sensors, combat management systems and other advanced systems.
The Launching ceremony of 4th Type-054 A/P frigate constructed for #PakNavy held at Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard, China. The technologically advanced ship is fitted with latest Surface, Subsurface, Anti-air weapons, Combat Management System & Sensors. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/2fTvS9LS1W
— DGPR (Navy) (@dgprPaknavy) December 24, 2021
The commission and induction of these ships will expand the warfighting capabilities of the Pakistan Naval Fleet, further peacekeeping and maintaining missions, ensure stability and balance of power in the most conflicted Indian Ocean region (IOR).
Chief Naval Overseer Commodore, Rashid Mehmood Sheikh while addressing at the launching ceremony, acclaimed the support of the People Liberation Army (PLA ), China Shipbuilding Trading Company (CSTC) and HZ Shipyard for the timely completion of the significant project despite the several challenges due to Covid-19 pandemic.
He mentioned that the induction of warships will further strengthen diplomatic relations, and boost maritime defence and deterrence.
Chief Guest, Cdre Rashid Mahmood Sheikh lauded support of PLA (Navy), China Shipbuilding Trading Company & HZ Shipyard for timely completion of project. Induction of warship will strengthen #PakNavy maritime defence & deterrence. (2/2)
— DGPR (Navy) (@dgprPaknavy) December 24, 2021
Senior officials of Navy (PLA) CSTC and HZ Shipyard attended the ceremony in China and ensured further progress and contribution for peace and stability. The Pak-China Friendship encompasses multidimensional fields and the launching of the 4th Ship of the series is an example of deeply-rooted defence, diplomatic and developmental Sino-Pak relations.
