A encounter reported between India’s INS Kolkata and Pakistan’s PNS Hunain in the Arabian Sea has drawn attention to the major difference in size and capabilities between the two vessels.
PNS Hunain is an offshore patrol vessel weighing around 2,600 tonnes, while INS Kolkata is a 7,400-tonne guided-missile destroyer. The Indian warship is also significantly longer, measuring about 164 metres compared with roughly 98 metres for the Pakistani vessel.
According to reports, PNS Hunain was involved in a close-range manoeuvre while operating near INS Kolkata. The Pakistani vessel reportedly suffered significant damage to its forward section and returned to harbour for repairs. India said INS Kolkata did not suffer structural damage and continued its operational deployment.
The incident has also led to diplomatic tensions, with both countries reportedly summoning each other’s representatives. India said INS Kolkata was carrying out a routine surveillance mission, while PNS Hunain was operating in the region as part of a Pakistani naval exercise.
PNS Hunain: Patrol and Maritime Security Role
PNS Hunain belongs to a class of vessels primarily designed for maritime security, surveillance and patrol missions. It can reportedly carry anti-ship missiles, air-defence systems and a 30 mm naval gun, along with a helicopter, unmanned aerial vehicle and small boats.
The vessel has a top speed of around 25 knots and is designed for extended operations at sea. However, its role and combat capabilities are different from those of a frontline destroyer.
INS Kolkata: Built for Multi-Dimensional Combat
INS Kolkata is one of the Indian Navy’s largest frontline warships. It is designed to counter threats from the air, surface and underwater domains.
The destroyer is equipped with BrahMos supersonic missiles, long-range surface-to-air missiles, advanced radar systems, a 76 mm naval gun and AK-630 close-in weapon systems. It also has torpedoes, rocket launchers and sonar for anti-submarine operations.
The ship can operate two helicopters and has a maximum speed of around 30 knots. Its size, weapons, sensors and defensive systems make it fundamentally different from an offshore patrol vessel.
