Navy deploys PNS Aslat to Indian Ocean for maritime patrolling

Warship will also engage in collaborative efforts with allied nations

RAWALPINDI:

Pakistan Navy deployed the PNS Aslat to conduct regional maritime security patrols in the Indian Ocean, a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Saturday.

This deployment aims to safeguard merchant vessels entering and exiting Pakistani ports. Additionally, PNS Aslat's presence seeks to enhance the security of international shipping routes, ISPR added.

Throughout its mission, the warship will engage in collaborative efforts with allied nations while also undertaking independent operations.

As part of maritime diplomacy, PNS Aslat will also make port visits to regional destinations.

Equipped with advanced weaponry and sensors, the warship is prepared to tackle diverse threats and execute various maritime missions effectively.

Read Keel laying of second Hangor-class submarine held at Karachi Shipyard

On February 21, Pakistan Navy’s state-of-the-art 4th Offshore Patrol Vessel, PNS Yamama was launched at M/s DAMEN Shipyard in Romania.

According to ISPR, Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ovais Ahmed Bilgrami, graced the occasion as the chief guest, marking a momentous occasion for Pakistan's maritime capabilities.

The Vice Chief of the Naval Staff emphasised the critical role of maritime security amidst prevailing conventional and non-conventional threats in the Indian Ocean Region. He underscored Navy's pivotal contribution to maintaining safe and secure sea lanes crucial for maritime trade.

The induction of multipurpose and highly adaptive platforms like PNS Yamama, equipped with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors, is expected to bolster Pakistan Navy's combat capability in safeguarding maritime frontiers and ensuring maritime security in the Arabian Sea and beyond.