Induction of PNS Tughril 

The commissioning of the most advanced and the largest Pakistan Navy frigate PNS Tughril, delivered by China, has opened a new chapter in Pakistan-China friendship that had matured over a long period. Reportedly, the PNS Tughril is the first hull of four Type 054 frigates being constructed for the Pakistan Navy by China. The ship is a technologically advanced and highly capable platform with enormous surface-to-surface, air and underwater firepower, besides extensive surveillance potentials. Tughril-class frigates would strengthen Pakistan Navy’s capabilities to respond to maritime challenges and to ensure seaward defence, maintain peace, stability and balance of power in the Indian Ocean region.

Pakistan is always keen to emphasize the status of China as its ‘all-weather friend’, and this relationship has taken on an even greater significance in recent times as both nations are trying to negotiate their place in a rapidly changing world. Both states are cooperating with each other in almost all spheres of life. The cooperation in the defence sector is of utmost importance due to geographical location of Pakistan. China wants to secure its position as an emerging superpower, while Pakistan is playing its part in supporting China so it can reliably benefit in economic and military terms and guard itself against the flakiness of its relations with the US. On its part, Pakistan has also stood by China. In Sino-Indian war of 1962, Pakistan supported China and their relations bolstered because of mutual alignment against India.

China has supported Pakistan a lot in defence sector. It has extended military support to all three armed forces of Pakistan. Whether it’s setting up of PAF Aeronautical Complex at Kamra, Heavy Industries Taxila, production of several kinds of ammunition at POF or maritime assistance for projects of Pakistan Navy, China always stood side by side with Pakistan. The joint venture of manufacturing of JF-17 Thunder aircrafts at PAC Kamra is one of shining example of defence cooperation between two countries. Now the induction of PNS Tughril will further strengthen the ties between the two neighbourly states. It is expected that in coming years both countries will continue to strengthen their strategic and political bond, proving this connection is stronger than steel.