Shaheer Ahmed
Defence for a country is crucial. To keep up with the latest trends, weapons and systems are to be upgraded to equip our forces against any threat. Along with the army and air force, the navy is also important to protect the sea line communications and maritime interests of a country. The three-armed forces make the country strong. Pakistan Navy has been upgrading its warheads to protect the coastal line constantly. An advanced ship PNS Tughril has been inducted into the Pakistan Navy fleet, yani kay hamara difa’a aur mazboot ho ga!
The frigate is one of the four being built for the Pakistan Navy laced with:
- a 76mm main gun
- 2×4 anti-ship missiles
- 32x HQ-16 surface to air missiles
- 2x Type 730 30mm CIWS
- 2x Triple Torpedo launchers
The Induction of #PakistanNavy first Type 054-A, multi role frigates PNS TUGHRIL and 10 x Seaking helicopters in PN Fleethttps://t.co/ZNfZnkKno4
— DGPR (Navy) (@dgprPaknavy) January 24, 2022
The Indian inclusion in US-led alliances and agreements with Oman pose a threat in the Indian Ocean, especially CPEC. It also raises an alarm to contain Pakistan along with the expansion of Chinese interests in the region.
Committed to high professional standards, Pakistan Navy has stepped up to modernize its fleet amid security challenges. It has proven to be the emerging naval force in the Indian Ocean. Pakistan Navy is also part of the post 9/11 ‘Coalition Maritime Campaign Plan under the UN mandate’. They have actively participated in ‘maritime security and counter-piracy operations’. They have also established ‘Regional Maritime Security Patrols’, to support the international efforts in the region. They aim to safeguard maritime security for the protection of domestic and international trade. Pakistan is committed to regional and international maritime.
It has 100 ships and 8 submarines in its fleet at the moment. They are of different origins: US, UK, Chinese, French, and locally produced ones. It includes anti-missile warships, anti-aircraft, etc. as well to make the fleet stronger. Pakistan has also started making locally produced missiles. In Dec 2021, Pakistan launched Babur Missile (2B) with a range of 900 km, which is a proud addition to the naval fleet. Earlier in the start of 2021, Babur 1A was launched with a range of 450 km. Recently, Pakistan Navy along with Turkey had signed a deal for the construction of 4 modern warships. The increase in the ships will add to the value of the Pakistan Naval Fleets.
A ceremony was held for the induction of PNS Tughril in the Pakistan Navy. The C King helicopters, gifted by Qatar have also been added to the fleet. According to the Pakistan Navy, “The ship is capable of enormous firepower & surveillance potential. Construction of PN Ship at China is the testimony of Pak-China all-weather friendship.” This will help in maintaining peace and stability in the Indian Ocean.
In 2017, Pakistan and China had a contract signed for the construction of modern frigates. They are designed for intense operations (anti-submarine, anti-surface, anti-air) in the seas. First Frigate was launched in 2020 whereas the second frigate was launched in 2021. PNS Tughril is built at the shipyard in Shanghai. It has surface-to-air and surface to surface missiles making it a multi-mission ship. It can carry out a lot of missions due to multifunction radar, weapons, and sensor systems. It is also equipped with ‘anti-submarine torpedo launchers, anti-submarine rocket launchers, and decoy rocket launchers’. The combat management system is capable of operations along with the other fleet.
Since the commencement of the Pakistan Navy, it has been busy creating, deploying, managing the seashore of Pakistan. Some of its achievements are as follows:
Operation Dwarka (1965)
One of the most significant events in history was the 1965 Indo-Pak war in which Pakistan Navy reflected courage, determination, professional competence, dedication, and coordination. The bombardment was initiated when ships were 5.5 to 6.3 miles from Dwarka light at midnight. 350 rounds were fired on the target in just four minutes, which was successful. The enemy did not resist and ships were back on 8th September.
Submarine Operation (1971)
Another achievement of the Pakistan Navy was in 1971 when the Indian Ship INS KHUKRI (Squadron Commander of Indian 14th Frigate Sqn) was attacked and it sunk in two minutes causing a heavy blow to the Indian Navy. 176 sailors and 18 officers including the commanding officer lost their lives.
Keeping a view on the current security environment, Pakistan Navy is determined to progress with the following motto, “the more you sweat in peace, the less you bleed in war.” Pakistan Navy is equipped with a modern warfare strategy where it is not only engaged in operations with international navies but also strengthening its strategy side by side.
Pakistan Navy has always been a symbol of bravery and resilience. It has always demonstrated its capacity and capability professionally. It is fully armed to counter the Indian Navy’s aggression. Pakistan Navy in a diplomatic move has launched a biannual exercise AMAN (together for peace) to enhance the diplomatic ties in the region and internationally. It also aims to ensure security in the seas.
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