Jane’s Information Group
SIGNALS
Date Posted: 28-Mar-2007
JANE’S NAVY INTERNATIONAL – MAY 01, 2007
Pakistan, Turkey sign research, technology and development MoU
Farhan Bokhari
Pakistan and Turkey have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate in naval research, technology and development.
No details of the MoU were revealed officially following the signing of the agreement on 26 March, during a visit to the Pakistan Navy’s headquarters in Islamabad by the Commander of the Turkish Naval Forces, Admiral Yener Karahanogiu.
However, Western defence officials based in Islamabad told Jane’s that the MoU could be the first step towards Pakistan’s plans for expanding the Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works (KSEW) in southern Pakistan.
The Pakistan Navy is to build the fourth F-22P frigate at the shipyard by 2013, in co-production with the China’s Hudong Zhonghua Shipbuilding Company. Beyond this, the navy is keen to co-produce locally two or more of the four further frigates it plans to order from China later this year.
Additionally, the Pakistan Navy aims to expand facilities at the Karachi shipyard to produce small boats and corvettes. This could include the co-production of an export version of the Turkish Navy’s Milgem-class corvette.
“The MoU with Turkey is another step along the way for the Pakistanis. They are keen to tie up with friendly countries in their surrounding region,” said one Western defence analyst who spoke to Jane’s on condition of anonymity.
A second defence official said that the MoU also reflects Pakistan’s growing interest in a long-term partnership with the US in patrolling the sea lanes of the Persian Gulf.
He added: “Turkey is not the US but… is considered a close ally of the US. Pakistan is keen for a naval partnership with the US and it’s also trying to seek closer ties with friends of the US.”
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