ISLAMABAD / KARACHI: The Pakistan Navy on Saturday successfully performed a live-fire demonstration of torpedo and anti-ship guided missiles during testing operations in the northern Arabian Sea.

The demonstration coincided with the start of joint exercises with the Chinese Navy near Karachi.

The two events take place weeks after the Sept 6 botched attempt to hijack the Navy’s ship, PNS Zulfiqar. The attack, allegedly with insider help, had hurt Navy’s reputation.

“The Live Weapons Firing by Pakistan Navy fleet units was a major activity undertaken to validate the lethality, precision and efficacy of Pakistan Navy’s weapon systems,” a spokesperson said.

The demonstration of live weapons firing was seen, among others, by Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Mohammad Asif Sandila. The entire testing area was cleared of merchant and fishing vessels and air traffic was also cautioned.

According to the spokesperson, the demonstration included firing of Torpedo from Agosta 90-B Class Submarine and an anti-ship guided missile from Fast Attack Missile Craft.

“All the weapons fired successfully hit the targets with pinpoint accuracy, thus reasserting the offensive punch of Pakistan Navy fleet,” he said.

“The successful live firing is reflective of fleet’s high state of readiness, professionalism and efficacy of the modern weapons system operated onboard PN platforms. It also reaffirms credibility of deterrence at sea and reassures PN commitment to safeguard our maritime borders,” he added.

Joint drill

Pakistan Navy and Chinese 17th Navy Convoy fleet started joint exercises.

The Chinese fleet is being commanded by Rear Admiral Huang Xinjian, deputy chief of staff East Sea Fleet.

The exercise includes a harbour and a sea phase involving the surface, air and Special Forces elements.

“The exercise; being first of the series is a landmark reflection of the historic ties between the two navies as well as a true manifestation of convergence of strategic interests of the two countries which will go a long way in promoting maritime security and stability in the region,” Pakistan Navy said.

Published in Dawn, September 28th , 2014