On April 18th, 2016, Pakistan Navy received two Landing Craft (Mechanized) at Karachi Shipyard & Shipyard & Engineering during a handing over ceremony.
Rear Admiral Syed Imdad Imam Jafri HI(M), Commander Logistics Pakistan Navy, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. The ceremony was attended by high ranking officials from Government, Pakistan Navy, KPT, PQA and KS&EW.
MD KS&EW, Rear Admiral Syed Hassan Nasir Shah HI(M) highlighted the status of ongoing and future projects of Karachi Shipyard. He also expressed that KS&EW had constructed similar six landing crafts for Pakistan Navy in 1976. As compared to the previous ones, these 2 x LCMs are distinct because of their new design and additional equipment. He also announced that Karachi Shipyard has been entrusted with the responsibility of construction of 4 submarines.
This project will elevate KS&EW among the elite club of few shipyards of the world where construction of both submarines and ships are undertaken. 2016 is a landmark year for Karachi Shipyard, as it will carry out steel cutting of 5 ships, including 2 x 32 ton Bollard Pull tugs, Missile Craft and 2 x ships for Pakistan Maritime Security Agency. It will also witness launching of 17000 Ton Fleet Tanker and FAC (M) 3 for PN. Both these projects will add significant value to the seaward defence of Pakistan.
Later, the Chief Guest expressed great pleasure and satisfaction to witness successful completion of another indigenous shipbuilding project of Karachi Shipyard. He said that induction of 2 x LCMs will contribute in enhancement of capability and transportation of men and materials. He acknowledged that Karachi Shipyard has successfully delivered various vessels to PN of high quality standards and within the contractual timeline.
Furthermore, he expressed his gratitude that Karachi Shipyard is contributing to the economy of Pakistan by generating revenue, providing jobs, payment of taxes to the exchequer and saving precious foreign exchange. While appreciating the workforce, he also said that Karachi Shipyard is a rare example of a public sector organization which has been revitalized completely due to efficient management and workforce. Moreover, he also congratulated Karachi Shipyard for the landmark achievement of securing the construction contract of 4 x new generation AIP submarines.
Image: Pakistan Navy