Pakistan Navy Commissions Indigenous PNS Sahiwal Gunboat in Historic Ceremony Karachi, July 24, 2025 – In a significant milestone for Pakistan’s maritime defense capabilities, the Pakistan Navy proudly launched PNS Sahiwal Gunboat, an indigenously developed gunboat, during an impressive ceremony at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works (KS&EW).
The event was graced by Vice Admiral Ovais Ahmed Bilgrami, Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, who presided over the commissioning as the chief guest. Senior officials from the Ministry of Defence Production, KS&EW, and Pakistan’s defense industry were also in attendance, marking the occasion as a testament to the nation’s growing shipbuilding expertise.
PNS Sahiwal Gunboat: A Testament to Pakistan’s Indigenous Naval Capabilities
The newly commissioned PNS Sahiwal Gunboat represents a significant leap forward in Pakistan’s maritime defense indigenization program. Designed entirely by the Platform Design Wing (PDW) of the Pakistan Navy, this gunboat embodies the nation’s strategic shift toward reducing dependence on foreign defense suppliers.
Currently under construction at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works (KS&EW), the Sahiwal-class vessel forms a crucial component of the Pakistan Navy’s comprehensive fleet modernization initiative. This project underscores the Navy’s commitment to:
✔ Self-Reliance in Defense: Developing indigenous solutions to minimize foreign dependency
✔ Technological Advancement: Incorporating modern naval warfare capabilities
✔ Fleet Modernization: Upgrading coastal defense systems with locally-produced vessels
The PDW’s successful design of PNS Sahiwal Gunboat demonstrates Pakistan’s growing expertise in naval architecture and marine engineering, marking an important milestone in the country’s defense production capabilities.
PNS Sahiwal Gunboat: Pakistan’s Multi-Role Maritime Guardian
The newly commissioned PNS Sahiwal represents a significant advancement in Pakistan’s coastal defense capabilities, equipped with state-of-the-art long-range semi-automatic guns specifically engineered for robust maritime operations. This versatile gunboat serves as a force multiplier for the Pakistan Navy with its comprehensive mission profile:
Primary Operational Capabilities:
✔ Coastal Defense System: Advanced gun systems provide protective coverage of Pakistan’s shoreline
✔ Extended Maritime Patrol: Enhanced surveillance radius for monitoring territorial waters
✔ Naval Mission Support: Capability to assist larger fleet operations when deployed
Multi-Role Operational Functions:
- 24/7 maritime surveillance and reconnaissance
- Anti-smuggling and interdiction operations
- Territorial waters protection and sovereignty enforcement
- Quick response to maritime security threats
Designed for optimal performance in both defensive and interdiction roles, PNS Sahiwal significantly enhances Pakistan’s ability to safeguard its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) while maintaining constant vigilance along crucial shipping routes. The vessel’s balanced design combines firepower with operational flexibility, making it equally effective for:
- Routine patrol missions
- Rapid response scenarios
- Joint operations with other naval assets
Strategic Advantage:
The gunboat’s deployment marks a critical enhancement in Pakistan’s layered coastal defense strategy, providing the Navy with:
- Increased operational flexibility in shallow waters
- Cost-effective solution for extended patrols
- Enhanced quick-reaction capability to maritime incidents
This induction underscores Pakistan Navy’s commitment to maintaining credible deterrence along its coastline while developing indigenous solutions to modern maritime security challenges.
Vice Admiral Unveils Expansion Plans asPNS Sahiwal Gunboat Joins Pakistan’s Modernized Naval Fleet
Karachi, July 24, 2025 – In a significant address during the commissioning ceremony, Vice Admiral Ovais Ahmed Bilgrami revealed the Pakistan Navy’s strategic vision for fleet enhancement through localized defense production.
Key Announcements:
✔ Series Production Initiative: The Navy is actively exploring domestic mass production of similar gunboats to:
- Strengthen coastal defense capabilities
- Boost Pakistan’s indigenous defense industry
- Reduce reliance on foreign suppliers
✔ Integrated Modernization Program: PNS Sahiwal’s induction complements recent additions to the fleet including:
- PNS Babur (2024 induction)
- PNS Hunain (2024 induction)
- Forming a multi-layered maritime defense network
Strategic Value of PNS Sahiwal:
While specific technical parameters remain classified, naval experts confirm the vessel provides critical:
- Coastal Security Enhancement: Specialized operations in littoral zones
- Force Multiplier Effect: Augments larger capital ships in fleet operations
- Quick Response Capability: Rapid deployment for maritime interdiction
Defense Analyst Perspective:
“The Sahiwal-class represents the perfect balance between Pakistan’s indigenization goals and operational needs,” says maritime security expert Dr. Ali Raza. “These gunboats fill the crucial gap between fast attack craft and major surface combatants.”
Looking Ahead:
This induction marks Phase II of the Pakistan Navy’s modernization roadmap, with:
- 6 more indigenous vessels planned by 2026
- Upgraded sensor packages for coastal surveillance
- Enhanced marine-industrial partnerships
The commissioning underscores Pakistan’s commitment to self-reliance in defense while addressing evolving maritime security challenges in the region.
What is PNS Sahiwal, and why is it significant?
PNS Sahiwal is an indigenously designed gunboat by Pakistan Navy’s Platform Design Wing (PDW). Its induction marks a major step in reducing foreign dependency for naval defense while enhancing coastal surveillance and patrol capabilities.
What are PNS Sahiwal’s key operational roles?
The gunboat is designed for:
✔ Coastal defense (territorial waters protection)
✔ Anti-smuggling & maritime patrols
✔ Supporting larger fleet operations
✔ Quick-response missions in shallow waters
Will Pakistan produce more ships like PNS Sahiwal?
Yes! Vice Admiral Bilgrami confirmed plans for series production.
Can PNS Sahiwal operate in deep waters?
It’s optimized for littoral (coastal) zones, working alongside larger vessels like frigates for extended missions.