Istanbul, December 21, 2025: Pakistan Navy’s Milgem-class corvette, PNS Khaibar, was officially commissioned at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard on Sunday, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan-Turkiye defence collaboration. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the chief guest at the ceremony, emphasised the need to further enhance mutual cooperation in defence production between the two countries.
PNS Khaibar is the second of four Milgem-class corvettes contracted to ASFAT Inc, a Turkish state-owned defence firm, in 2018. Under the agreement, the first two ships were to be constructed in Turkiye, while the remaining two will be built in Pakistan. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) noted that the commissioning of PNS Khaibar “marks the completion of the construction of both ships in Turkiye.”
Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, who attended the ceremony, acknowledged the contributions of ASFAT, the Istanbul Naval Shipyard, and all Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) involved in the planning, design, and construction of the ships. He highlighted that the bilateral engagements between Pakistan Navy and Turkish Naval Forces not only strengthen defence collaboration but also reflect the enduring partnership between the two countries.
During the event, Erdogan toured the ship, received a guard of honour, and interacted with the crew. Admiral Ashraf also exchanged views with the Turkish leadership on regional maritime security and explored avenues for future joint initiatives. According to the ISPR, Pakistan Navy Milgem ships are “the most technologically advanced surface platforms,” equipped with modern command and control systems, integrated weapons, and advanced sensors, further enhancing Pakistan’s maritime capabilities.
