Pakistan Navy’s frigate PNS Saif (FFG-253), commanded by Captain Shujaat Abbas Raja, docked at Chattogram Port, Bangladesh, on a goodwill visit coinciding with India’s major naval exercise, Trishul, currently underway in the Bay of Bengal.
The visit, aimed at enhancing naval diplomacy and maritime cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh, includes a series of professional exchanges, joint drills, and cultural interactions. Upon arrival, the ship received a ceremonial welcome from senior Bangladesh Navy officials and dignitaries, reflecting Dhaka’s approach of maintaining balanced defence relations with multiple regional navies.
PNS Saif — a Chinese-built Type 053H3 (F-22P) frigate — is equipped with modern anti-ship and anti-air missile systems, representing one of Pakistan’s more capable frontline combatants. The ship’s deployment forms part of Pakistan’s regular overseas missions to strengthen bilateral naval ties and project presence across the region.
During its stay, the crew will hold meetings with Bangladesh Navy leadership, exchange tactical knowledge, and conduct joint maritime security and communication drills. Cultural engagements and outreach activities are also planned to foster people-to-people ties and goodwill.
Analysts note that the timing of the visit — paralleling India’s Exercise Trishul, which involves surface ships, submarines, and air assets — underscores the strategic undercurrents of regional maritime diplomacy in the Bay of Bengal.
Bangladesh, which maintains robust defence cooperation with both India and China, continues to follow a diversified maritime engagement policy. The hosting of PNS Saif reflects Dhaka’s efforts to expand operational exposure and sustain an independent, balanced naval outreach strategy.
PNS Saif’s visit will conclude with a farewell ceremony following joint drills, marking yet another chapter in South Asia’s evolving maritime diplomacy and the delicate balance of naval influence in the Indian Ocean region.
