Article Posted on : - Sep 04, 2010

The Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS McInerney of US Navy. A file photo

ISLAMABAD (PTI): Pakistan has commissioned into its navy a refurbished US frigate that is being supplied under an American foreign military aid programme.

The Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS McInerney was renamed PNS Alamgir following its commissioning into the Pakistan Navy at Mayport, Florida.

The 31-year-old warship is being refurbished by the US as part of a programme worth nearly USD 70 million.

The US Congress approved the sale of the frigate to Pakistan, a "major non-NATO ally", in 2008.

Pakistan's Ambassador to the US Hussain Haqqani, who was the chief guest at the commissioning ceremony, said the induction of the frigate will go a long way in enhancing the country’s capability to provide maritime security in the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Horn of Africa.

This ship transfer symbolises the "strong bond of friendship" between the governments of the US and Pakistan, he said. Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates are operated by US allies and are suited for conducting maritime security operations.

The USS McInerney, which has a displacement of 4,100 tonnes, is equipped for anti-submarine warfare and can carry two helicopters for multiple tasks.

After necessary maintenance work and training of a Pakistani crew, the frigate will sail for Pakistan in January 2011.