The Pakistan Navy has officially inducted PNS Yamama, its fourth and latest offshore patrol vessel (OPV), into its fleet at the Jinnah Naval Base Ormara.
PNS Yamama is engineered to perform a wide spectrum of maritime tasks, encompassing both security and non-combatant military roles.
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Constructed at Damen Shipyard in Romania, the vessel measures roughly 85 metres in length, can reach speeds up to 22 knots, and has an operational range of 5,000 nautical miles.
PNS Yamama is equipped with stealth features, command and control systems, advanced weapons, long range air/surface navigation and surveillance systems, along with provisions for helicopter operations, enabling it to operate effectively in various threat environments.
The induction of the OPV marks a boost to the Pakistan Navy’s capacity to safeguard its territorial waters, secure sea lines of communication, and uphold order at sea.
This addition is anticipated to offer greater flexibility in fleet operations, bolster maritime security, and contribute to regional peace and stability.
According to a Facebook post, chief of the naval staff admiral Naveed Ashraf “highlighted the precarious geo-strategic environment in the Indian Ocean and emphasised the need for a potent naval force to counter emerging traditional and non-traditional challenges”.
He reiterated that “the addition of PNS Yamama to the PN fleet would significantly enhance Pakistan Navy’s capability to safeguard the maritime frontiers of Pakistan and reinforce its commitment to ensuring safety and security in international waters”.
He also recognised Damen Shipyard Galati and the collective efforts of the project team in providing a platform that reflects the collaboration and bilateral ties between the two allied nations.
Damen Shipyards Group finalised the delivery of the OPV 2600, PNS Yamama, to the Pakistan Navy in Constanta, Romania, in December 2024. This follows the earlier transfer of PNS Hunain in the summer of 2024.
The delivery of PNS Yamama continues a partnership that commenced with the production of two Yarmook Class vessels, inspired by the Damen OPV 1900 design.
