The collision between Pakistan Navy’s PNS Hunain and the Indian Navy’s INS Kolkata in the Arabian Sea has highlighted the vast difference in their size and combat capabilities.
The PNS Hunain is a Yarmook-class offshore patrol vessel of around 2,600 tonnes and 98 metres in length. Designed mainly for maritime security and surveillance, it has limited combat capabilities and can carry anti-ship missiles, air-defence systems and a 30-mm naval gun.
In contrast, INS Kolkata is a 7,400-tonne guided-missile destroyer stretching 164 metres. Commissioned in 2014, it is equipped for multi-dimensional warfare. Its arsenal includes BrahMos supersonic missiles, long-range surface-to-air missiles, a 76-mm gun and AK-630 close-in weapon systems. It also has advanced radar, sonar and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
During Tuesday’s incident, the Pakistani vessel reportedly suffered significant damage and returned to harbour, while INS Kolkata continued its deployment. India’s Ministry of External Affairs said the Indian warship suffered no structural damage.
The incident has also triggered diplomatic tensions, with both countries summoning each other’s envoys.