The Pakistan Navy’s Babur-class corvette PNS Khaibar (F-282) has commenced its Sea Acceptance Trials (SAT) from Istanbul Naval Shipyard, following the successful completion of outfitting and harbor trials. This milestone marks a key phase in the vessel’s journey toward operational deployment.
PNS Khaibar is the third of four multi-mission corvettes being acquired under the Pakistan-Türkiye MILGEM project, a major bilateral defense initiative. The ship has been constructed by Türkiye’s state-owned defense contractor ASFAT at the Istanbul Shipyard, while the remaining vessels are being built at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works (KS&EW) under a technology transfer arrangement.
Modern Multi-Mission Corvette
The Babur-class corvettes are designed to support anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare roles. PNS Khaibar features stealth characteristics, a high degree of automation, and is equipped with modern sensors and combat management systems. Key performance specifications include a displacement of approximately 2,926 tons, a length of 108 meters, and a top speed exceeding 30 knots. It also offers a range of 3,500 nautical miles and an endurance of up to 15 days at sea.
The vessel is armed with a combination of surface-to-air missiles, anti-ship and land-attack cruise missiles, a 76mm main gun, close-in weapon systems, remote weapon stations, and advanced radar and sonar technologies.
Strengthening Indigenous Capability
The PN MILGEM project is a flagship example of defense collaboration between Pakistan and Türkiye. In addition to strengthening Pakistan’s maritime capabilities, it enhances local shipbuilding expertise through knowledge and technology transfer. The program is significantly contributing to the modernization of the Pakistan Navy and supports its objective of ensuring maritime security in the region.
Next Steps
Upon the successful completion of sea trials, PNS Khaibar will be delivered to the Pakistan Navy later this year. The induction of this advanced corvette will further enhance Pakistan’s ability to conduct sustained naval operations in both coastal and deep-sea environments.
The PNS Khaibar is expected to join its sister ships in bolstering regional deterrence and securing Pakistan’s maritime interests in the Indian Ocean Region.
