Pakistan Navy introduced a fourth offshore patrol vessel (OPV) named PNS Yamama in his fleet Monday, describing it as a ship equipped with modern stealth features and sophisticated weapons that allows it to function in a multi-truer environment.
PNS Yamama was constructed at the lady yard in Romania. The Multipurpose ship is equipped with modern stealth features, the latest command and control systems and sophisticated weapons and sensors, the navy said in a statement.
A ceremony to officially induce OPV was held at Jinnah Naval Base in the southwestern city of Ormara in the presence of government officials, local dignitaries and senior Pakistan Navy officers.
“Like the fourth of the series, the induction of this advanced ship significantly improves Pakistan Navy’s ability to secure sea defense, protect sea lines with communication and maintain order at sea,” the statement states.
The development highlights Pakistan Navy’s improved reach of Western Seaboard, which provides flexibility in its naval operations, which improves maritime security and its ability to contribute to regional peace and stability, added.
PNS Yamama’s induction would also ensure the protection of vital maritime infrastructure, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a Chinese infrastructure project of multi-billion dollars connecting Pakistan’s Gwadar city to China’s Xinjiang Province.
Pakistan Navy Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf highlighted the uncertain Pakinomist-strategic environment of the Indian Ocean and emphasized the need for a potent naval force to meet new traditional and non-traditional challenges, the statement states.
“He reiterated that the addition of PNS Yamama to the PN fleet would significantly improve Pakistan Navy’s ability to protect the maritime borders of Pakistan and strengthen its obligation to ensure security and security in international waters,” it said.
In addition to introducing various warships into its fleet, Pakistan Navy has had several joint exercises with friendly nations in recent years in an attempt to improve common operational capabilities and strengthen regional security.
