ISLAMABAD, May 28: Commodore Azher Shamim Anwar has been promoted to rear admiral with immediate effect, a notification issued by the defence ministry said. According to Naval Headquarters’ press release, Rear Admiral Shamim was commissioned in Pakistan Navy in the Operations Branch on June 1, 1974 with seniority from August 17, 1973. He has specialized in aviation and held various command appointments including P-3C Squadron whilst in the US, 27 Maritime Squadron at PNS Mehran, 18th Destroyer Squadron and Auxiliary and Mine Warfare Squadron.

He has commanded PNS Zulfiqar, a frigate, and PNS Mujahid, a minesweeper. His staff appointments included assistant chief of naval staff (plans) at NHQ, chief staff officer to commander Karachi and officer-in charge Maritime Headquarters at PNS Haider.

He is a graduate of Naval Staff College USA and has also done Armed Forces War Course from National Defence College. He was awarded TI (M) in 1984 in recognition of his services as the senior pilot and flying instructor in 29 ASW/ASV Atlantic Squadron.

The rear admiral also has the honour of making the first entry of a frigate in Ormara Naval Harbour.