KARACHI: The induction of the marinised ATR aircraft equipped with weapons and sensors would substantially enhance the operational capabilities of the Pakistan Navy fleet’s air arm.

This was stated by Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi, while addressing a ceremony held on Saturday for the induction of the state-of-the-art maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) and tactical unma­nned aerial vehicles (UAVs) into the Pakistan Navy fleet.

Admiral Abbasi, who graced the occasion as chief guest, highlighted Pakistan Navy’s role in safeguarding the maritime frontiers and ensuring safety of sea lines of communication.

He said that induction of another ATR into the cargo/para-drop role would provide added flexibility to the special forces’ operations.

The chief guest said that induction of LUNA NG UAVs into the fleet’s air arm would augment Pakistan Navy’s intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities in maritime domain, especially in creek areas and along the coastal belt.

He urged the crew of the newly-inducted ATRs and UAVs to make optimum use of these platforms in order to contribute effectively to the combat potential of the PN’s fleet.

While appreciating the detection of the Indian submarine by the PN aircraft in the post-Pulwama standoff, the admiral said he was glad that the PN’s aviation fleet had proved its mastery and made the nation proud. He advised the aviators to keep the same spirit and be prepared for any eventuality that may arise anytime.

He said Pakistan Navy’s developmental plans inclu­ded the acquisition of unmanned combat aerial vehicles in support of maritime operations.

The ceremony was att­ended by high-ranking officials, serving and retired avi­ators of the Pakistan Navy and sister services and representatives of the governm­ent departments concerned.

Published in Dawn, January 5th, 2020