Pakistan is set to procure the second, most-advanced frigate war- ship from China. The Pakistan Navy had signed an agreement with China for the construction of four Type 054A/P frigates in 2017, and the first warship was sent to Pakistan in August 2020 while the second one has arrived in Feb 2021.
It was the first time ever that China sent such a sophisticated war- ship to a foreign country, and it will significantly strengthen the Pakistan Navy’s surface fleet. The warship agreement will further deepen the military ties with China.
The new Missile Frigate is equipped with an upgraded radar system and long-range missile system, which will help to enhance the maritime defense and deterrence capabilities of Pakistan. Further- more, the international analysts suggest that the warship deal aims at ensuring “balance of power” in the strategic Indian Ocean.