Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) SAIF visited Port Alexandria in Egypt for goodwill cum training visit.
During stay at Port, Commanding Officer PNS SAIF called on Flag Officer Commanding Alexandria Naval Base, Rear Admiral Ehab Mohammed Sobhi and other senior military officials. Matters of mutual interests came under discussion. During the interaction, CO PNS SAIF conveyed well wishes of Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi to the people of Egypt in general and Egyptian Navy in particular. He also extended his gratitude for the whole hearted support provided by Egyptian Navy and Alexandria Port authorities in making ship’s stay comfortable. The Commanding Officer also laid wreath at Martyrs’ Memorial of Alexandria.
PNS SAIF is the front line warship of Pakistan Navy Fleet’s 18th Destroyer Squadron, and is the third ship of Sword Class Frigate. The ship is fitted with state of the art robust weapons and sensors and is capable of undertaking all types of maritime operations in multi-threat environment.
PNS SAIF is also embarked with organic Anti-Submarine Warfare helicopter Z9EC.
Upon arrival at the Port Alexandria, the ship was received by Defense Attache of Pakistan and Liaison Officer from Egyptian Navy.
During three days stay at port, PN officers and men visited Egyptian Navy ships ANWAR-EL-SADAT (1020) and TAHYA MISR (1001) whereas Egyptian Navy officers visited PNS SAIF. A friendly football match was also played between both navies. A reception was held onboard PNS SAIF, which was attended by number of diplomats and military officials. The occasion was gainfully utilized to project positive image of Pakistan to highlight the contributions made by Pakistan Navy to maintain regional maritime peace and security.
On completion of port visit, PNS SAIF conducted Passage Exercise (PASSEX) off Alexandria with Egyptian Navy Ship ABU QIR (941). PASSEX was aimed to enhance interoperability and to share professional experiences.
Published in Daily Times, September 15th 2018.
