KARACHI, Sept 12 The first F-22 P frigate of the Pakistan Navy, PNS Zulfiquar, constructed in China, arrived here on Saturday and took part in the ongoing naval exercises in the Arabian Sea.

The ship was welcomed by the PN surface and aviation units conducting exercises. PNS Zulfiquar also participated in its very first naval exercises, which were witnessed by the Commander of Pakistan Fleet, Rear Admiral Asif Sandila.

After taking part in the exercises, the ship proceeded to Karachi harbour.

PNS Zulfiquar is the first of four ships being built in collaboration with China at Hudong Zhonghua shipyard in Shanghai. The second and third ships are also nearing completion and expected to be handed over to Pakistan next year. The fourth ship is under construction at Karachi Shipyard and is to be completed by 2013.

F-22 P frigate is a Sword class ship equipped with long range surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles, depth charges, torpedos, latest automatic 76mm guns, close-in-weapon system, sensors, electronic warfare and advanced command and control system.