Pakistan Naval Ships "SAIF" & "NASR" arrive at the Port of Colombo
 
 

Two Pakistan naval ships, “SAIF” and “NASR” arrived at the Port of Colombo on 01st October 2014 on a goodwill visit. The ships were ceremonially welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy in accordance with naval traditions on their arrival.

The Mission Commander, Commodore Zahid Hyas and the Ships’ Commanding Officers paid a courtesy call on the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Jayantha Perera at the Naval Headquarters in Colombo. They held cordial discussions and exchanged mementos to mark the occasion. The Defence Advisor attached to the Pakistan High Commission in Sri Lanka Colonel Muhammad Rajil Irshad Khan was also present on the occasion.

PNS SAIF is a multi mission frigate capable of operating independently or as part of a Task Force. It is equipped with state-of-the-art modern weapons and sensors and carries Anti Submarine Z9EC helicopter onboard. The ship is capable of surviving in multi-threat environment with its Surface to Surface, Surface to Air missiles and Close-in-Weapon-System.

SAIF is 123 meters in length and has a displacement of 3,144 tons. The ship is commanded by Captain Jawad Ahmed and consists of a complement of 202 naval personnel including 14 officers and 188 sailors.

PNS NASR is a leading unit of the Pakistan Navy Fleet’s 09th Auxiliary and Mine Warfare Squadron. The ship can undertake long range helo operations with its anti-ship missile and torpedoes. It is capable of providing fuel, water and stores including ammunition to surface ships and helicopters at sea for their prolonged operations. Apart from its combat support role, PNS NASR can carry two small or one large helicopter. The storage facility of various types of missiles, ASW weapons and other munitions on boards further enhance her importance and utility at sea.

NASR is 171 meters in length and has a displacement of 14,960 tons. The ship is commanded by Captain Rizwan Ali Munawar.

The ships are on their way home from the Port Kelang in Malaysia and depart Colombo on 04th. The ships’ complements are due to participate in a series of programmes organized by the Sri Lanka Navy to enhance mutual relations and inter-personnel interaction during their stay in Sri Lanka.