Damen`s PNS Yamama Empowers Pakistan Navy to Secure Exclusive Economic Zone

Damen Shipyards has successfully delivered the second Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) 2600 to the Pakistan Navy, further strengthening its maritime defense capabilities. The vessel, named PNS Yamama, was officially handed over on December 17, 2025, during a ceremony at the Damen Shipyards facility in Constanta, Romania. This follows the delivery of the first OPV, PNS Hunain, earlier in the summer of 2024.

PNS Yamama is equipped with cutting-edge technology and advanced systems designed to enhance the Pakistan Navy’s ability to safeguard its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). With its increased operational range and enhanced surveillance and defense capabilities, PNS Yamama will play a crucial role in securing Pakistan`s vast maritime domain, contributing to regional security, and protecting its economic interests in the strategic waters. The delivery of this vessel marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s naval modernization efforts and its growing commitment to maintaining maritime security..

The delivery of PNS Yamama underscores a long-standing partnership between Damen and the Pakistan Navy, which began with the construction of two Yarmook-class OPVs in 2020. These earlier vessels, based on Damen’s OPV 1900 platform, set the stage for the advanced capabilities of the OPV 2600 series. With a displacement of 2,600 tons and a length of 98 meters, the new vessel is designed for diverse maritime operations. Its capabilities include patrolling, maritime security, and search and rescue missions.

Pakistani-Dutch Relations: A History of Collaboration and Cooperation
The relationship between Pakistan and the Netherlands has evolved significantly since the 1960s, beginning with development cooperation and expanding into various fields, including defense. Initially focused on areas such as water management, education, and governance, this partnership has been vital in supporting Pakistan’s development needs. The Netherlands, known for its expertise in water management, has assisted Pakistan in addressing challenges related to irrigation, flood control, and water conservation, crucial for Pakistan`s agricultural sector.

Over time, the scope of collaboration between the two countries has expanded, and bilateral ties have strengthened through trade and cultural exchange. Additionally, the Netherlands has supported Pakistan in governance reforms and capacity building, helping to improve public administration and institutions.

As Pakistan continues to modernize its military, the defense sector has become an increasingly important aspect of bilateral relations. The Netherlands has been involved in defense cooperation with Pakistan, which includes the supply of advanced military equipment and technology, as well as collaborative efforts in areas like maritime security.

This long-standing partnership highlights the dynamic nature of Pakistani-Dutch relations, marked by shared interests in development, security, and broader regional cooperation. The enduring collaboration has provided both nations with opportunities to address global challenges, enhance mutual understanding, and foster a stronger bilateral relationship.

An aspect of Dutch-Pakistani defense relations is naval cooperation. In the early 1980s, the Royal Netherlands Navy introduced the Alkmaar- class minehunters, known internationally as the Tripartite-class. These vessels were a product of a collaborative effort between France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. In 2021, the Netherlands agreed to transfer two of these minehunters, HNLMS Haarlem and HNLMS Middelburg, to Pakistan. The ships were transported to Pakistan in late 2022.

High-level visits have further strengthened defense ties. In October 2024, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Naval Staff of Pakistan, visited the Netherlands. During his visit, he met with senior Dutch military officials, including Vice Admiral René Tas, Commander of the Royal Netherlands Navy, and Vice Admiral Boudewijin Boots, Deputy Chief of Defence. Discussions focused on enhancing bilateral naval collaboration, joint exercises, and training exchange programs. Admiral Ashraf also visited the DAMEN Shipyard and a Zeven De Provinciën- class frigate.

Foreign built ships
Pakistan Navy`s Diverse Fleet: A Blend of International Expertise

The Pakistan Navy boasts a diverse and modern fleet, incorporating warships and vessels from various countries, enhancing its maritime capabilities across a range of operational needs. Countries such as China, Turkey, the Netherlands, France, and the United States have played significant roles in equipping the Pakistan Navy with advanced naval assets.

China has been a key partner, supplying multi-role Tughril-class and Zulfiquar-class frigates, which are versatile and capable of conducting anti-surface and anti-submarine operations. China has also delivered the Azmat-class fast attack craft, designed for coastal defense and rapid engagements, and the Hangor-class submarines, further bolstering Pakistan’s underwater capabilities.

Turkey has contributed to the Navy’s modernization through the MILGEM-class corvettes, which are particularly focused on anti-submarine warfare and patrol operations. Additionally, Turkey collaborated with Pakistan on the construction of the PNS Moawin, a fleet tanker designed to provide logistical support and extend operational range.

From the United States, Pakistan received the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate PNS Alamgir, a vessel originally built for the U.S. Navy, transferred to Pakistan under a military assistance program. The addition of the PNS Alamgir further strengthened the Navy`s anti-air and anti-surface warfare capabilities.

This international cooperation has played a pivotal role in enhancing the Pakistan Navy`s naval defense and maritime security, enabling the country to better safeguard its territorial waters and maintain a strong presence in regional and international waters. Each contribution reflects the shared interests of Pakistan and these partner nations in ensuring maritime security and defense.