In a momentous event underscoring the deep defense partnership between Pakistan and Turkey, the induction ceremony of the Pakistan Navy’s second PNS Khyber was held at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, along with Pakistan’s Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, who attended the event as a special guest.
According to Pakistan Navy’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the ceremony marked the formal addition of the state-of-the-art PNS Khyber to the Pakistan Navy’s fleet. President Erdoğan lauded the longstanding fraternal ties between Pakistan and Turkey and emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration in the defense sector.
Admiral Naveed Ashraf, in his address, commended the Turkish contributions in ship planning, design, and construction, highlighting the advanced technical capabilities embedded in PNS Khyber. He noted that the growing defense partnership between the Pakistan Navy and Turkish Naval Forces reflects mutual trust and a commitment to regional maritime security.
Following the ceremony, President Erdoğan toured the vessel, where a Guard of Honor was presented, and he met with the ship’s officers and crew. Discussions also focused on enhancing regional maritime security and exploring future joint initiatives between the Pakistan Navy and Turkish Naval Forces.
The PNS Khyber, part of the PNS Malgən-class ships, is equipped with modern command and control systems and advanced technical capabilities. Under the ongoing Pakistan-Turkey defense agreement, four ships are being constructed, with two being built in Turkey and two in Pakistan, showcasing a shared vision for naval cooperation and technological collaboration.
The induction of PNS Khyber represents a significant milestone in Pakistan-Turkey defense relations, reinforcing both nations’ commitment to joint strategic initiatives and enhancing regional maritime stability.
