KARACHI, Dec 31: India amassed its forces on Pakistani borders to intimidate the country in pursuance of her policy to malign Pakistan and to get maximum advantage out of the anti-terrorism environment.

But the Pakistan navy, like its army and air force, forced the enemy to retreat without any gain.

This was stated by Naval Chief Admiral Shahid Karimullah while speaking at the annual efficiency competition parade of the navy at the dockyard here on Tuesday, an ISPR press release said.

Admiral Shahid said that maintaining a high level of operational preparedness throughout the tension was the reflection of navy’s readiness for defending the sea frontiers of the country.

He said advancement in electronics and computers has transformed the sea conflict into the most complex proposition.

Despite resource constraints and some inherent handicaps, the navy was striving hard for keeping pace with the fast developing weaponry and equipment, he added.

He outlined the new frigates and missile boats development programmes to overcome the critical shortages. He expressed satisfaction over the ongoing strategic project of indigenous construction of Agosta 90B submarines.

The first indigenously built submarine, SAAD, was expected to join the fleet as per schedule, he said.

Commenting on the significance of the parade, Admiral Shahid said that it was the culmination of year-long operational activities, which also marks the beginning of a new year of rigorous training schedule, exhausting sea exercises and demanding operational activities.

Earlier, in his welcome address, Rear Admiral Mohammad Afzal Tahir, Commander, Pakistan Fleet, summarized the major achievements of the year with reference to the post-September 11 scenario in the Arabian Sea.

He appreciated the devotion displayed by the officers and men of various squadrons of the fleet to respond to the situation.

He highlighted the importance of the joint exercises with US, Britain, Turkish and Omani navies and said the exercises were mutli-dimensional in nature and provided excellent opportunities to learn fighting skills.

Later, the naval chief gave away trophies to the winners.

Squadron wise trophies were bagged by the Destroyer Shahjahan, Missile Boat Shujaat, Submarine Shushuk, Tanker Kalmat, Mine Hunter Muhafiz and 27 Maritime Squadron of Naval Aviation.

The ceremony was attended by a large number of the serving and retired officers and sailors.—APP