ISLAMABAD, Sept 15 The third F-22P frigate equipped with modern weapons and sensors was delivered by China to Pakistan Navy on Wednesday.

The frigate armed with surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles built by Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard of Shanghai was delivered to Pakistan Navy at an impressive ceremony, according to a communication received here from China through the public relations department of Pakistan Navy here.

During the ceremony, the Pakistan flag was hoisted on the ship as a band played the national anthem. Admiral Noman Bashir, Chief of the Naval Staff, was the chief guest on the occasion.

Speaking at the ceremony, Adm Bashir remarked that Pak-China relationship was unique which over the years had matured in all fields. Praising the efforts of Chinese engineers and technicians, he said the delivery of frigates ahead of schedules was an extraordinary achievement.

He emphasised that this would not have been achieved without focused approach at all levels of management. Named as PNS Saif, the ship is the third in the series of four F-22P ships. Design and construction work on the ships started in 2005.

The first and second F-22P ships in the series are called PNS Zulfiquar and PNS Shamsheer which have already been commissioned in Pakistan Navy.

With the commissioning of PNS Saif the construction phase of the project in China has been completed. Construction of the fourth ship at Karachi Shipyard is progressing satisfactorily and as per schedule.