The OPV2600 in the exhibition is a follow-up to Pakistani Yarmook-class OPVs’ first batch, which was based on the company’s lighter OPV1900 design.
The ship is seen armed with various weapon systems from multiple countries. The guns consist of a Leonardo Marlin 40 gun, two ASELSAN STAMP 12.7 mm RCWS, and one ASELSAN GÖKDENİZ 35 mm CIWS.
Damen’s use of Turkish weapon systems in a marketing model can be mainly attributed to Pakistan’s increasing use of Turkish systems on its naval platforms, such as PN MİLGEM. GÖKDENİZ and STAMP RCWS are used on PN MİLGEM of the Pakistani Navy. Additionally, this is a sign of progress in the global recognition of said systems.
Damen officials told TurDef that the vessel will be delivered to Pakistan without armament, and the Pakistan Navy will install the weapons. Therefore, It is impossible to comment on the weapons seen on the vessel.
The missile armament consists of four Habrah long-range cruise missiles capable of anti-surface warfare or land attack and 12 cells for CAMM-ER medium-range air defence missiles with a range of 40+ km. CAMM-ER will also be used on ASFAT’s PN-MİLGEM and likely on the planned Jinnah-class frigates.
Long-range cruise missiles like Habrah, which are primarily meant for patrol duties and low-intensity combat situations, are unusual for OPVs. This is likely because Pakistan is a country bordering a very large sea zone and feels the need to have longer-range weapons against enemy ships.
The company notes that, like most OPV designs, the ship will be fitted with but not with stated armaments.
