Turkey delivers first corvette to Pakistan
The Pakistan Navy received the PNS Babur, the inaugural vessel constructed as part of Turkey's MİLGEM Project. The handover ceremony took place at the Istanbul Shipyard Command, marking a momentous occasion for both nations.
The Pakistan MİLGEM Project encompasses the production of four MİLGEM ADA Class Corvettes for the Pakistan Navy. Notably, two of these corvettes are being meticulously crafted at the Istanbul Shipyard Command in Turkey, while the remaining two are under construction at the Karachi Shipyard in Pakistan.
The delivery of the other three ships is planned to occur at intervals of six months. The PNS KAIBAR Corvette, the third vessel in the series, is currently in progress at the Istanbul Shipyard Command and is scheduled for delivery to the Pakistan Navy at this time next year. The final corvette will be handed over to the Pakistan Navy in Karachi in 2025, completing this significant naval project.
The MİLGEM corvettes are designed to excel in a multitude of roles, including surface, air, and submarine defense warfare, reconnaissance, surveillance, defense against asymmetric threats, and command and control missions. Their versatility and advanced capabilities make them a valuable addition to the Pakistan Navy's fleet.
The PNS Babur boasts impressive specifications, with an overall length of 99.5 meters and a maximum width of 14.4 meters. With a displacement of 2,400 tons and a draft of 3.9 meters, it can achieve speeds of up to 29 knots per hour thanks to its two diesel engines and a gas turbine. Additionally, the corvette is equipped to accommodate a 10-ton helicopter, enhancing its operational flexibility and effectiveness.
This delivery marks a significant step forward in strengthening the naval capabilities of Pakistan and solidifies the enduring partnership between Turkey and Pakistan in the realm of defense and maritime security.