ISLAMABAD, Jun 4 (APP): Pakistan Navy would receive first of four state-of-the-art Frigates F-22P type in August this year while the second one in December-09 from China. “Construction of first two ships has already been completed and will be delivered to Pakistan Navy in August and December this year after successful completion of on going trials,” a media release issued by Pakistan Navy said here on Thursday.

“Weapons systems to be installed on first ship have been successfully demonstrated at the optimum performances and ranges,” the media release said.

Construction of the third F-22P Frigate is also progressing as per schedule. This ship has been successfully launched at Shanghai on May 28, 2009 in an impressive ceremony attended by both Pakistani and Chinese dignitaries.     

Construction of fourth ship was started in March this year at Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works and will be delivered to Pakistan Navy in April 2013.

Pakistan Navy is acquiring four new F-22P class frigates under collaboration with China as first three ships are being constructed at Hudong Shanghai and last one at Karachi Shipyard and Engineering works.

F-22P frigates are equipped with modern weaponry and sensors.    

Each ship of them will carry Anti-submarine Z9EC helicopters.

First batch of two helicopters has arrived in Pakistan.

Induction of F-22P frigates will not only enhance the war fighting potential of Pakistan Navy but will also strengthen the indigenous ship building capability of the country.