Pakistan has commissioned the Turkiye built warship PNS Khaibar into its Navy marking a significant milestone in strengthening the country’s maritime capabilities. The ceremony took place at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan attending as the chief guest highlighting the deep defence cooperation between the two nations.
The PNS Khaibar is the second Milgem class corvette commissioned under a 2018 contract for four advanced naval vessels. These ships are among the most technologically sophisticated platforms in Pakistan’s fleet equipped with modern weapons systems advanced sensors and integrated command and control capabilities designed to enhance maritime security and deterrence.
Pakistan’s Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf praised the growing defence partnership with Turkiye acknowledging the efforts of Turkish shipbuilders and original equipment manufacturers involved in the ship’s design and construction. President Erdoğan called for further collaboration in defence production describing the event as a reflection of “brotherly relations” and strategic ties between the two nations.
The commissioning of PNS Khaibar not only strengthens Pakistan’s naval power but also signals a long term commitment to joint defence projects. The remaining Milgem class vessels are expected to be delivered in the coming years further boosting Pakistan’s operational capabilities in the region. Experts say this development underscores Pakistan’s focus on modernizing its fleet and maintaining regional maritime stability while reinforcing bilateral ties with Turkiye.
