Share this story!            

Credible deterrence must for peace: navy chief

* Admiral Noman says force cannot afford to be complacent and must maintain a high state of operational preparedness

Karachi: Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Noman Bashir, while addressing the 90th officers commissioning parade of Pakistan Navy at Pakistan Naval Academy, on Friday said the navy’s peacetime role of maritime policing, benign operations and diplomatic undertakings have increased manifold.

“Notwithstanding Pakistan government’s unprecedented peace initiative with India, coupled with confidence-building measures, we cannot afford to be complacent and must maintain a high state of operational preparedness as only maintenance of a credible deterrence guarantees peace,” said the naval chief.

Admiral Bashir observed that despite limited resources, the government was eager to modernise Pakistan Navy, adopting a two-pronged approach-acquisition from abroad with transfer of technology and indigenous construction. “We have made considerable progress in achieving self-reliance in the construction of ships, submarines and several other platforms indigenously. Construction of F-22 P frigates in collaboration with China would further enhance our shipbuilding capability and strengthen the offensive punch of Pakistan Navy. Besides, acquisition of suitably equipped used ships is also on our top priority,” he added.

Commenting on Pakistan’s maritime strategy, he termed it paramount to the country’s capability. In the context of Gwadar deep-sea port and costal highway, he said that these projects would certainly provide fresh impetus to the economic activities related to sea and strengthen the national economy. agencies

Home | National

Share this story!