Commissioning of First Indigenously Constructed F-22P Ship in Pakistan, September 3, 2013 (2013-20)

1. The foundation of Sino-Pak relations was laid six decades ago by our forefathers based on the shared bonds of mutual trust, respect, brotherhood and friendship between the people of two countries. Since then, this relationship has grown deeper and fonder in all spheres of defence, economic and culture; particularly in defence collaboration.

2. In line with Government Policy, Pakistan Navy is actively engaged with Chinese companies for development in various fields. The hallmark of Sino-Pak naval collaboration is construction of state-of-the-art F-22P Frigates with special element of Transfer of Technology (ToT) whose contract was signed on 04 Apr 05. This project included aspects of ship design, construction, test & trials, ammunition and spare support. These Frigates (Sword Class) evolved from the existing design of Chinese Frigates with certain modifications and customization to meet Pakistan Navy's operational requirements.

3. Three ships constructed in China under this project have been inducted in Pakistan Navy. First ship named PNS ZULFIQAUR was commissioned on 29 Jul 09, 2nd ship named PNS SHAMSHEER was commissioned on 19 Dec 09 and 3rd ship named PNS SAIF was commissioned on 15 Sep 10. It was a proud moment for both countries that all three F22P Frigates were delivered as per the schedule. It is a mammoth achievement while looking at the technical complexities of this mega project. This achievement has been made possible through excellent cooperation, immaculate planning, meticulous execution, resolve, dedication and untiring commitment of Pakistani and Chinese authorities for fulfillment of this project.

4. The fourth ship of this class PNS ASLAT is first ever modern frigate constructed indigenously in 65 years history of Pakistan. The project is a leap forward in self-reliance and indigenization of military hardware. This has marked the beginning of modern shipbuilding era that places Pakistan amongst few leading nations in warship building. The frigate project has not only helped in developing human resource but also helped in revitalizing ship building industry of Pakistan.

5. PNS ASLAT, the guided missile frigate is second ship to bear the name "ASLAT". The first ship to named "ASLAT" was Garcia Class frigate (EX-USS O CALLAHAN FF-1501), acquired from the US Navy on 08 February 1989. This frigate remained in active service in Pakistan Navy till June 1993. The name "ASLAT" is derived from an Arabic word and is a type of sword used by Arabs during early days of Islam.

6. On 20 December 2009, the keel of Guided Missile Frigate PNS ASLAT, the fourth ship of Sword Class Frigate was laid in Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works (KS&EW), Pakistan. She was launched on 16 June 2011. On 11 September 2012, the ship sailed into the Arabian Sea on her maiden sea trip for her machinery and propulsion trials. On 02 February 2013, PNS ASLAT successfully completed a series of sea trials spanned over a period of four months. The ship was commissioned on 17 April 2013 and will be inducted in PN Fleet in August 2013.

7. F22P Frigates are specially designed for anti-submarine warfare and can effectively counter air and surface threats as well. These Frigates are also provided with an organic helicopter named Z9EC helicopter, which can also detect and attack enemy submarines independently. Along with long range weapons and sensors, sufficient self defence systems provide these ships the flexibility for operating in multithreat environment while ensuring own safety. These ships have enhanced operational capabilities as well as reach of Pakistan Navy.

8. Following additional benefits have also been accrued from the project:

a. Gaining expertise in large warship construction.

b. Reviving KS&EW and creating job opportunities.

c. Involvement of consortium of local companies.

d. Development of down stream local industry.

e. Enhancement of export potential.

f. Saving of considerable foreign exchange.

9. The F22P ships are fitted with multipurpose state of the art weapons and sensors which make them extremely versatile warships with tremendous fire power. These ships have not only augmented Pakistan Navy's combat potential but have also afforded Pakistan Navy an opportunity to enhance its forward presence in the area of interest, contributing to balance of power in the region.

10. F22P Frigate Project is a hallmark of our successful technological shift from West to East which could only be achieved through intimate teamwork despite language barrier between the two parties. Success of this project has not only enhanced mutual confidence but has also paved way for further strengthening of strategic partnership. F-22P Frigate Project is the manifestation of our everlasting strategic partnership. Pakistan Navy will continue to play its role for taking this mutually rewarding relationship between Pakistan and China to new heights of success in the years to come.

On Commissioning of First indigenously construcred F-22P ship in Pakistan a commemorative postage stamp of Rs.10/-denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on September 3, 2013.