First of the P-3C Orion aircraft delivered

First of the P-3C Orion aircraft delivered
Shah Kareem | Jan 20, 2007, 19:21

The release of P-3C Orion aircraft to Pakistan is a “real sign” of sustained mutual cooperation between the US and Pakistan and a tangible translation of their commitment to make the world a peaceful and safer place to live in.

This was stated by Acting Chief of the Naval Staff Vice Admiral Mohammad Haroon while addressing the induction ceremony P-3C Orion aircraft (C-84) held at PNS Aviation Base, PNS Mehran here on Thursday.

He said uncertainties of present-day regional maritime environment pose complex challenges of terrorism, arms smuggling, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and drug and human trafficking at sea.

There is urgent need to denying use of sea for illegal activities,acts of terrorism for safety and security of humankind, he stressed.

He said induction of P-3C aircraft will add to existing strength of Pakistan Navy and enhance its surveillance capabilities in North Arabian Sea.

This is the first out of eight P-3C Orion aircraft to be acquired from USA under a contract.

The second is expected next month and entire process to acquire eight P-3C would be completed in three to four years.

He said the induction of P-3C aircraft will not only enhance our surveillance capabilities in North Arabian Sea, but will also demonstrate commitment and resolve of Pakistan’s Government to maintain stability in the region. PN ships are already participating in Coalition Maritime Campaign Plan, he added.

The Acting Naval Chief acknowledged valuable cooperation of the US Government and contribution of Lockheed Martins in augmenting operational capabilities of PN Air Arm.

He urged the Naval aviators and technicians to put in their best to rise to the challenges of sustained flying operations and maintenance requirements of the newly inducted aircraft.

Later, Acting Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Mohammad Haroon formally handed over the aircraft to PN Aviation.

In her address Acting Consul General of USA said her country and Pakistan are strong allies in the war against terrorism and the induction of P3-C aircraft in Pakistan’s Navy fleet is representation of this close relationship.

She expressed hope that these new additions would benefit Pakistan in improving and increasing its defence capabilities.

The ceremony was attended by senior Naval officers, officials of US Navy, representatives of Lockheed Martin and aviators of Pakistan Navy.

The first P-3C aircraft arrived here from Diego Garcia, Indian Ocean, which was its last stop before finally reaching here.

The plane took off from South Carolina, USA and after making stops at different countries and travelling 14000 nautical miles landed here at PNS Mehran on Thursday.

P-3C Orion is a four engine, highly manoeuverable, all weather aircraft primarily designed for reconnaissance, anti-submarine and anti-surface vessel operations. It is 116 feet long and has a maximum speed of 410 kts.

Naval Chief Admiral Afzal Tahir on January 18th

One of the embargoed Pakistan Navy P-3C Orion aircraft.
In an obvious reference to India’s growing naval presence Naval Chief Admiral Afzal Tahir said Pakistan can not afford to remain “oblivious of our traditional adversary when it comes to our security and sovereignty”. “While formulating our defence strategy, the current and future development plans of our arch rival must be kept in view”, he said.

The Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Afzal Tahir was addressing the Annual Efficiency Competition Parade and Awards Ceremony 2006 of Pakistan Navy Fleet, held at PN Dockyard in Karachi. A media release covering the function was distributed here Saturday by the Naval Headquarters.

Admiral Tahir further said that Pakistan has no aggressive designs yet it is vital to enhance our defence capability to protect our sovereignty and integrity. Pakistan Navy is, therefore, in a process to acquire modern weaponry and platforms.

The naval chief said that with the development of Gwadar Port and expansion of maritime infrastructure at Karachi, Pakistan is on the threshold of becoming a major conduit for trade and commerce in the region. “This entails to have an efficient and strong navy to safeguard sea lines of communication and trade routes to ensure safe and secure economic activity”.

The naval chief urged the officers and men to explore all avenues to support and nurture the Fleet and sustain its fighting efficiency. He reminded them that the modern Hi-Tec military hardware is not a panacea itself.

It is the trained manpower and professional competence of the fighting men and their resolve to protect the national interests at all costs, which ultimately makes the difference, he added. Admiral Tahir expressed his complete satisfaction over the performance of PN fleet and lauded the efforts of all concerned for successfully accomplishing all the operational objectives set for the previous year.

Earlier in his welcome address Commander Pakistan Fleet Rear Admiral Asaf Humayun recounted the operational achievements of the PN fleet. He said that participation of Pakistan Navy in major maritime exercises and continued contribution towards international war against terrorism not only proved its battle worthiness but also turned out to be highly beneficial for enhancement of its professional capabilities.

First of the P-3C Orion aircraft delivered | Pakistan Defence