F-22P Frigate For Pakistan Undergoes Sea Trial

PNS Zulfiqar is armed with eight C-803/C-602 surface-to-surface AntiShip missiles and eight FM-90 surface-to-air missiles. F-22P uses the Russian AK-176M 76.2 mm as its main gun. F-22P has a stealthier platform as it uses many of the Type 054 frigate's Radar Cross Sectional (RCS) reduction concepts. Two 30 mm seven barrel gattling guns make up the CIWS.

In October 2005, Ministry of Defence Production had signed a contract with China Shipbuilding and Trading Company (CSTC) for construction of four F22P frigates for Pakistan Navy with Transfer of Technology (TOT). Three ships are to be built in China whereas the fourth ship will be constructed at Karachi Shipyard. Currently, the first ship (to be named PNS ZULFIQUAR) is under trials and due to be delivered to Pakistan Navy by end July 2009. The second F-22P Frigate being built for Pakistan Navy will be named PNS SHAMSHEER on joining Pakistan Navy Fleet in January 2010. Construction of third Ship (to be named PNS SAIF) is also progressing at a fast pace. The construction project is to be completed by 2013. Addition of these ships will strengthen the PN fleet with much needed advancement and prowess.

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