KARACHI: Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Gen Syed Asim Munir was in Karachi on Friday where he witnessed firing of different Air Defence weapons systems during Exercise Al-Bayza-III, 2024 at Sonmiani.

The army chief viewed integrated fire and battle manoeuvres of Army Air Defence systems, which include High to Medium Air Defence Weapons system (HIMADS), Low to Medium Air Defence system (LOMAD), Short Ra­­nge Air Defence system (SHORADs) and Exten­­ded Short Range Air Defence system (ESHORADs).

Gen Munir appreciated the achievement of engaging targets with precision and operational readiness of Corps of Army Air Defence.

While interacting with officers and troops, the COAS highlighted that armed forces of the country are modernising their systems in line with the requirements to deter and be able to respond to any threat emanating against Pakistan.

He termed the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park (NASTP) a project of national and strategic significance that would yield manifold benefits for the country since it would spur technological progress and foster self-reliance by offering a platform for the nation’s youth and future generations.

Earlier, the army chief visited Army Air Defence Centre, laid a floral wre­ath at Yadgar-i-Shuhada and paid homage to martyrs of armed forces.

Published in Dawn, January 13th, 2024