Pakistan’s Navy has acquired a Chinese-built spy ship named Rizwan, identified by intelligence analyst Damien Symon through open-source satellite imagery. The vessel, described as an “offshore supply ship,” was acquired from China last year and spotted in Jakarta, Indonesia, in June 2023 en route to Pakistan.
The 87.2-meter-long compact ship features two large radar domes on the stern, indicating an intelligence gathering role. While Pakistan Navy and Ministry of Defence Production declined to discuss the ship’s capabilities, a confidential source confirmed it is an “information gathering ship” without further details.
The vessel’s design is considered affordable and flexible, potentially supporting mission-specific equipment such as undersea gliders. The ship’s focus is likely on gathering electronic and signals intelligence, aiding in monitoring Indian naval activity and reducing the intelligence burden on Pakistan’s Navy assets.
The acquisition of Rizwan is part of Sino-Pakistani military collaboration, supporting Pakistan’s naval modernization efforts. This partnership with China, alongside programs with Dutch and Turkish governments, aims to enhance Pakistan’s fleet air defense, electronic warfare capabilities, and anti-access/area denial strategy in the Arabian Sea region. Ultimately, it will transform Pakistan’s Navy into a potent regional maritime force and help maintain strategic balance with the Indian Navy.
