Pakistan Navy inducts Sea Kings and Chinese-built frigate
A screengrab showing a couple of the Pakistan Navy’s newly inducted Sea King helicopters obtained from Qatar. (PN)
The Pakistan Navy (PN) formally inducted ten Westland WS-61 Sea King helicopters into its Naval Air Arm on 24 January. At the same event, the first Chinese-built Type 054A/P frigate was commissioned.
These Sea King helicopters were obtained second-hand from the Qatar Emiri Air Force, and were commissioned into No. 111 ‘Sharks’ Squadron. This squadron is located at Mehran Naval Base near Karachi, and already flies Sea Kings.
Of the ten aircraft, seven are Commando Mk3 types and three are Commando Mk2A variants. In Qatar, the former carried AM39 Exocet missiles for anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, whereas the Mk2A were
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
India elevates defence systems to boost mountain surveillance
India has strengthened its focus on terrain-adaptive intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance following recent incursions and drone activity along the country’s northern borders.
-
Germany signs contract for 20 Tranche 5 Eurofighters
The aircraft will be delivered between 2031 and 2034 and will be upgraded with the latest electronic warfare capabilities to the EK configuration.
-
Saab receives order to continue future fighter concept studies out to 2027
The order from the FMV is an extension of the original contract signed in March 2024 and covers exploration of both crewed and uncrewed platforms.
-
AUSA 2025: GA-ASI and Hanwha to produce Gray Eagle STOL in South Korea
The Gray Eagle STOL will be made available to several international militaries, with initial customer delivery planned for 2028.
-
AUSA 2025: AeroVironment showcases new variant of Switchblade loitering munition family
The new Switchblade 400 was on display alongside new variants of existing drones: the Switchblade 600 Block 2 and Switchblade 300 Block 20.