The Pakistan Navy marked a significant milestone in its modernisation journey with the launch of the fourth Yarmook-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV), PNS YAMAMA, at the Damen Shipyard in Galati, Romania. Vice Chief of Naval Staff, Ovais Ahmed Bilgrami, graced the occasion, highlighting the vessel’s contribution to bolstering the fleet’s combat capabilities.
Designed based on Damen Group’s OPV 1900 specifications, PNS YAMAMA will primarily specialize in maritime patrol operations. Displacing 2,300 tons and measuring 91 meters in length, this powerful vessel boasts a beam of 14.4 meters and a draft of 4 meters.
A robust propulsion system powers PNS YAMAMA, featuring a Combined Diesel or Diesel (CODAD) arrangement with four Caterpillar 3516 diesel engines driving it to a top speed of 22 knots. Its impressive range of 6,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 12 knots allows for extended missions, while the ability to operate for 40 days without resupply underscores its self-sufficiency.
For enhanced versatility, PNS YAMAMA carries two rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs), enabling swift responses and diverse operational capabilities. Over 60 personnel form the core crew, responsible for navigation, maintenance, and executing a range of mission-specific tasks.
Keeping a watchful eye on maritime and aerial activities is the MR-36A I-band Surface/Air Search and Track Radar, a key component of the vessel’s surveillance and tracking systems. Additionally, advanced electronic warfare systems, including decoy flares and chaff launchers, provide countermeasures against threats and ensure survivability in challenging situations.
When it comes to firepower, PNS YAMAMA packs a punch. Armed with a 30 mm Aselsan SMASH remote weapon station, two 12.7 mm Aselsan STAMP remote weapon stations, two 4-cell Harbah SSM launchers, and a 20 mm Phalanx Block 1B Close-In Weapon System (CIWS), the vessel is prepared to counter diverse threats. The presence of a flight deck further expands its capabilities, allowing for the operation of one helicopter and one unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).
The launch of PNS YAMAMA represents another step forward in modernizing the Pakistan Navy and demonstrates its commitment to securing its maritime interests. This versatile and well-equipped vessel promises to play a crucial role in safeguarding regional waters and ensuring the nation’s maritime security.
February 21, 2024
Source: Navy Recognition