ISLAMABAD, April 12: Pakistan will get one of four F-22P frigates from China in 2009. First three of the frigates will be built in China and the fourth in Karachi. China will equip these frigates with six helicopters.

This was stated by chairman of the Senate’s standing committee on defence, Senator Nisar A. Memon, while speaking at a press conference here on Thursday on the return of the committee members after a week-long visit to China.

He said that China, under the agreement with Pakistan, would also transfer technology to indigenously-build submarines.

The F-22P frigates have evolved from the existing design of the latest Chinese frigates with modifications and customization to meet Pakistan Navy’s requirements.

The combat system of F-22P ships features various sensors for surveillance and detection of surface, sub-surface, and air contacts and corresponding engagement weapon systems.

All the sensors and weapons are integrated through a command and control network, which is also supported by navigation, communication and ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore data link networks.

The F-22P is capable of operating in areas contaminated with nuclear, biological and chemical agents.

The frigate is well-equipped for anti-submarine, anti-surface and anti-air warfare as well as self-defence capabilities.

Senator Memon said that in the recent past a number of joint ventures between Pakistan and China had been successfully carried out while a number of others were in-hand.

These include manufacturing of JF-17 Thunder aircraft, F-22P frigates and many more, he added.

He said the committee was extended invitation to visit China by the Chinese People’s Institute of Foreign Affairs (CPIFA).

He said the unanimous decision to pay a maiden visit abroad by any committee of the Upper House was taken in recognition of existence of deep-rooted and all-weather friendly relationship between Pakistan and China.

Putting forth recommendations for further strengthening ties between the two countries, he said there was need to further increase political parties, businessmen and parliamentary contacts.

He said China had given a categorical assurance that JF-17 aircraft would not be sold to India.

He said the committee members also visited JF-17 Thunder Aircraft manufacturing facilities at Chengdu and Hudong Shipyard at Shanghai to see the manufacturing of frigates.

He said that during its stay in China, the delegation held meetings at the CPIFA and a round-table discussion with scholars of the Institute of Strategic, National Defence University, Beijing.