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China launches first Fast Attack Craft for Pakistan

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Islamabad, Sept 20, IRNA -- China on Tuesday successfully launched the first Fast Attack Craft (missile) being built for Pakistan Navy in the Chinese Xingang Shipyard in Tianjin, officials said.

The project of Missile Craft construction represents a quantum leap, not only in Defence Production in Maritime Sector of Pakistan, but also addresses a long standing operational requirement of Pakistan Navy.

The Fast Attack Craft (Missile) is equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry and sensors including C802A Surface-to-Surface Missile and has stealthy features. Addition of these ships will strengthen the PN fleet with much needed advancement and powers.

The Missile Craft will be a potent addition in the Pakistan Navy’s surface force. Installation of the best available weapons and sensors onboard makes her an extremely versatile warship with tremendous firepower. The navies of other countries will also observe the operational capabilities of the vessel during joint exercises.

The ship will be the first of AZMAT Class FAC(M)s which is scheduled to be delivered to Pakistan Navy Fleet by April 2012, said a statement from the Pakistani embassay in Beijing received here.
Pakistan's Naval Chief, Admiral Noman Bashir, who was the chief guest at the launching ceremony said, that present geo-political situation demands further strengthening of Pakistan-China relations and assured that Pakistan is deeply committed to achieving the shared objectives of attaining peace, stability and prosperity in the region.

The Naval Chief pointed out that “the environment around us warrants Pakistan Navy to be prepared to counter the forces, challenging our sovereignty as well as regional peace and security.”

Admiral Noman Bashir expressed the confidence that induction of Missile Crafts will not only supplement Pakistan’s combat potential but also afford Pakistan Navy the opportunity to distinctly uphold its forward presence in area of interest, contributing to the balance of power equation in the region.

“Pak-China relationship is unique and does not draw any parallel in the world. This relationship over the years has matured in all fields, particularly in defence,” he said.

The admiral said that he is confident that construction of the 2nd Craft in Pakistan will also be accomplished successfully with full cooperation of Chinese friends.

The collaboration in this project has opened new avenues of cooperation which will be yet another milestone in defence cooperation between China and Pakistan, officials said.

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Islamic Republic News Agency/IRNA NewsCode: 30572918