Pakistan has received its second naval vessel from Turkiye, strengthening defense cooperation between the two countries. The handover involved a MILGEM-class corvette, PNS Khaibar.
The formal ceremony took place at the İstanbul Naval Shipyard Command. It marked the official transfer of the ship to Pakistan and highlighted ongoing collaboration in naval development.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan attended the ceremony. He spoke about the strong and longstanding ties between Turkiye and Pakistan. “The Türkiye–Pakistan friendship, rooted deep in our shared history and tested over centuries, will—Allah willing—endure until the end of time, flourish, and grow ever stronger,” he said.
The MILGEM corvette PNS Khaibar is part of Pakistan’s plan to modernize its naval fleet. These warships are designed for a variety of missions, including patrol, surveillance, and defense operations. Experts say the MILGEM vessels will significantly enhance Pakistan’s maritime capabilities.
This handover comes after the first MILGEM-class ship was delivered to Pakistan last year. The success of the program reflects the growing defense partnership between Ankara and Islamabad. Both countries aim to collaborate on technology transfer, naval training, and shipbuilding expertise.
Officials from Pakistan’s Navy attended the ceremony and expressed their commitment to maintaining strong naval readiness. The acquisition of the MILGEM corvette is seen as a milestone in Pakistan’s naval expansion and strategic defense planning.
The MILGEM-class ships are equipped with advanced radar systems, modern weaponry, and high-speed maneuvering capabilities. Analysts note that these features make the vessels highly effective for regional maritime security and patrol duties.
The handover also signals deeper bilateral ties, showing both nations’ commitment to defense collaboration and regional stability. Pakistan plans to integrate the new MILGEM corvette into its fleet soon, further strengthening maritime defense readiness.
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With the addition of PNS Khaibar, Pakistan continues to advance its naval capabilities while reinforcing its strategic partnership with Turkiye in the defense sector.
