Pakistan Navy gears up for major inductions on Defense Day

As Pakistan prepares to celebrate Defense Day on September 6, the Pakistan Navy is set to bolster its fleet with the induction of two major warships—PNS Babar and PNS Hunain, reported 24NewsHD TV channel Wednesday.

Sources confirm that President Asif Ali Zardari will serve as the chief guest at the induction ceremony.

PNS Babar, the first Babur-class ship constructed in Turkey, will officially become part of the Pakistan Navy. This 2,888-ton warship, launched on August 15, 2021, and commissioned on September 23, 2023, is equipped with a vertical launch system capable of countering air threats. The Babur-class ships, four of which are being inducted into the Navy, are designed for combat on surface, underwater, and air simultaneously. Two of these ships are being built in Istanbul, and two in Karachi under a Pak-Turkey agreement.

PNS Hunain, the third Yarmouk-class Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) built at the Galati Shipyard in Romania, will also join the Navy. This 98-meter-long vessel, with a speed of around 24 knots, is equipped with surface-to-air missile capabilities, a 76 mm main gun, and two 20 mm secondary guns. The Yarmouk-class ships, including PNS Hunain, are known for their versatility in surface and air warfare, as well as search and rescue operations.

The induction of these advanced vessels, named after significant battles in Islamic history, will significantly enhance the Pakistan Navy's strength and operational capabilities. The final ship of the Yarmouk class, PNS Yamama, is currently nearing completion following its launch earlier this year.