jawadI think his arguement is reaction time. You can see ballistic missiles coming from a LONG ways away in comparison to a sea-skimmer.
What about IR detection of these supersonic anti-ship cruise ?
Don’t know about others but BrahMos anti-ship cruise travels at 14000m+ altitude for 290km range and 2.5m speed so detection can be …………..?
jawadSPADA 2000 is a thing of past better to go for MCIA EM/IR
jawadpo 08/11/06
Credible defence guarantees peace: Musharraf
John Thakur Das
Karachi—President General Pervez Musharraf said Thursday that security and peace is only guaranteed through credible defence and strength and never through weakness. Prevailing situation in Lebanon bears testimony to this fact.
Addressing at the launching ceremony of Pakistan Navy’s second indigenously built submarine Hamza held at PN Dockyard he said: “We will continue strengthening our defence forces in order to ensure our sovereignty and stability in our region”.
The President further said that in today’s geo-political scenario it is of utmost importance to be self-reliant specially, in defence production. The defence forces of Pakistan are embarked on indigenization programmes and projects like F-22 P Frigates and submarine construction, Al-Khalid and Al-Zarrrar tanks and JF-17 Thunder projects are indicative of our firm determination to make country’s defence impregnable. The chief guest said that today is a great day in our history as we have obtained technical expertise to construct this complex platform. “I commend and congratulate all engineers and technicians who by means of their hard work and dedicated efforts have made the dream come true”, he added. On this occasion he also announced a sum of Rs. 5 million to all those involved in the submarine construction project.
Addressing the crew of the submarine he said, “You are going to operate most latest and state-of-the-art war machine which in fact is the offensive punch of Pakistan Navy and we all are proud of you”.
The President specially thanked the government of France and DCN for their continued cooperation. He also paid rich tribute to the French technicians who lost their lives in the tragic incident and reiterated his condolences to the bereaved families.
Earlier in his welcome address Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Afzal Tahir said that with this landmark achievement, Pakistan is now at par with the few advanced nations capable of building these highly complex state-of-the-art vessels. This has also culminated the process of transfer of technology, a strong element of submarine construction contract with France.
Highlighting the important characteristics of submarine Hamza, he informed that it is the most advanced version of Agosta design and is equipped with the latest state-of-the-art systems. He said that Pakistan is the first country to introduce in the submarine a unique Air Independent System, MESMA, which would enable the submarine to achieve greater underwater endurance and long range. This will also provide enhanced reconnaissance and stealth capability making it an ideal platform for offensive operations. The submarine is capable of firing anti ship missiles and torpedoes, he added.
Later, the First Lady Begum Sehba Musharraf formally launched the submarine by making a bottle of “Aab-e-Zamzam” slide along a rope and sprinkling the sacred water on the hull of submarine. After formal launching, submarine Hamza will undergo extensive harbour and sea trials and upon successful completion, will be handed over to Pakistan Navy by June 2007.
Earlier, on arrival at the Submarine Construction Yard, the President was introduced to the constructors of the submarine. Later, the chief guest formally named the submarine as Hamza after the great Muslim warrior Hazrat Amir Hamza. .
Pakistan Navy had signed an agreement to construct three Agosta class submarines with DCN France in September ’94, which envisaged transfer of technology in phased manner. As per the contract, the first submarine was completely built in France and inducted in Pakistan Navy as PNS/Khalid in September ’99. The second submarine PNS/Saad was partially built at PN Dockyard and commissioned in December, 2003. The third submarine Hamza has been completely constructed at PN Dockyard by utilizing indigenous resources and technical expertise.
The ceremony was attended by Governor Sindh Dr. Ishratul Ebad Khan, Chief Minister Sindh Dr. Arbab Ghulam Rahim, Defence Minister Rao Sikander Iqbal, foreign diplomats, senior serving and retired military officers and civil dignitaries.
Six more submarines needed to match Indian navy: Hamza to be launched today
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Six more submarines needed to match Indian navy: Hamza to be launched today
WIRASAT HUSNAIN
KARACHI (August 10 2006): President General Pervez Musharraf will launch Hamza submarine, third of the series constructed by the DCNI, a French ship building company in the private sector, on Thursday.
Talking to Business Recorder an official of the ministry of defence production and the representatives of the DCNI at the French Consulate said that the construction of three submarines beginning from Agosta 90-B, Saad and ending Hamza the French company has completed its contract and would now be looking for another opportunity to work in co-operation with the government of Pakistan.
They said that Pakistan still needed six more submarines to strengthen its defence capabilities and to match with the Indian naval force it appears a necessity.
They said that the DCNI was already committed with the Government of India to construct six submarine designed on latest techniques. It is the same company, which is catering to the needs of Pakistan as well.
The company officials agreed with the suggestion that the technology that has been supplied to India or is likely to be supplied to her would be superior to that, which has been supplied to Pakistan.
The Pakistani official said that the technology in the construction and efficiency of submarines is changing for the better with the passage of each day and therefore, the Indian Navy would have an edge over Pakistani product. Pakistan has six submarines and needs six more he added.
He said that there would be open tender for this contract and the best would win it.
He said that Pakistan has the know-how and the capability to undertake construction of submarines. Our preparedness should be utilised as it takes decades to reach the stage where we are at the moment.
He said opportunity lost in this field would take years to regain.
He said that Pakistan has the expertise as Agosta was purely a French product, Saad was partly Pakistani and partly a French product whereas Hamza is purely a Pakistani product where French technology and Pakistani human resource has been used.
He said Pakistan has the capabilities and capacities to undertake production of sophisticated warfare equipment but even then there will be an international tender for the construction of six more submarines.
He said that Hamza would be tested for its performance for about a year or so before it is inducted into the naval fleet by 2007.
The French Consul General in Karachi Pierre Seillan introduced Jean-Marie Poimboeuf, chairman and CEO of DCNI to guest.
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Musharraf slams calls for defence cuts
Says only force can guarantee security
KARACHI: President Gen Pervez Musharraf has declared that Pakistan follows a strategy of defensive deterrence and does not have offensive designs against anyone.
Speaking as chief guest at the launching ceremony of second indigenously built Agosta 90-B submarine, which was later named by him as Hamza, the president said: “When we talk of a defensive deterrence, we mean an ‘offensive defensive deterrence’.” This submarine today has given an offensive punch to the Navy, he said. “We have been following a policy of indigenisation and self-reliance and this project is a physical manifestation of such a strategy.”
Musharraf said with a smaller and agile force, “we can still, without getting into an arms race, maintain our strategy of defensive deterrence irrespective of massive spending that may be going on around us”.
The president criticised what he termed “drawing room critics and pseudo intellectuals”, who talk against the expenditure on the armed forces and seek reduction in the armed forces. “I want to tell them that security and peace is only guaranteed through force and strength, never through weakness.”
He said a physical example of this is what is happening tragically in Lebanon and added that peace can only be guaranteed through strength. “Therefore, the armed forces of Pakistan Insha Allah will keep growing from strength to strength,” the president remarked, adding: “We are not into an arms race.”
He stated: “We have analysed whatever is happening around us and today, I can say with full surety and conviction that the development process that we have adopted for the armed forces of Pakistan in accordance with our economic potential is more than adequate to guarantee our strategy of defensive deterrence.”
He commended the efforts of all personnel who successfully indigenised Pakistan and made the country self-reliant and not dependent on any outside force for the development and protection of its soil. He mentioned that in the Army the main battle tank, Al-Khalid, and the support tank of Al-Zarrar are the physical manifestation of highest quality of indigenised product besides many other projects.
In the Pakistan Air Force, JF-17, the latest success which, “Insha Allah will be flying in Pakistan on March 23”, is also a physical manifestation of the indigenisation for the Air Force besides many other projects. As far as the Pakistan Navy is concerned, the president added, F22P frigates which “we are going to develop ourselves and the submarine Agosta which we have developed in collaboration with France, all go to prove the technical expertise which Pakistan itself has developed.”
The launching ceremony, among others, was attended by Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ebad Khan, Chief Minister Dr Arbab Ghulam Rahim, Defence Minister Rao Sikandar Iqbal, and officials of DCN France. http://www.thenews.com.pk/top_story_detail.asp?Id=2452
‘Agosta submarine will enhance PN capability’
By Our Reporter
KARACHI, July 10: Pakistan Navy’s defensive capability will be further enhanced when the indigenously built Agosta-90B submarine of the French origin, PNS/M HAMZA, will be launched next month.
This was stated by Commodore Shahid Saeed, general manager of the submarine construction project of the Pakistan Navy, during an onsite media briefing organised at the Naval Dockyard on Monday.
The submarine is being built under a contract signed by the ministry of defence production on Sept 21, 1994, with the French company, DCN International, for three Agosta-90B submarines. Under the contract first submarine Khalid was built in France and was handed over to the PN in September 1999. The second submarine, SAAD, partially built in Pakistan, joined the PN fleet in December 2003.
Regarded as a hallmark of indigenous efforts, construction of the third submarine, Hamza, started in 1998 with planning and work preparation, followed by fabrication of 12 pressure hull sub-sections and culminating into three pressure hull sections. This was followed by mounting of light bulkheads, internal tanks and ballast panels in August 2003.
After completing all the necessary work and acceptance trials in harbour and at sea, the submarine will be handed over to the PN fleet as a fully operational unit after completion of all trials, in June next.
Hamza is regarded as the most advanced version of Agosta design. It is 76 metres long and weighs around 2,000 tons. It has a range of 10,000 nautical miles and can remain at sea for continuously 60 days.
According to Mr Saeed, the submarine is equipped with state-of-the-art combat system — Submarine Tactical Integrated Combat System — which is capable of firing SM-30 Exocet missiles and wire-guided torpedoes. On completion it will have 50 officers and men on board.
The unique feature of the submarine is its Air Independent Propulsion system, MESMA, making it capable of achieving greater underwater endurance and long range. This will also provide the enhanced reconnaissance with greater stealth, making it an ideal platform for offensive operations, said the commodore.
Media was informed that steps had been taken to involve local industry in submarine construction programme, which was continuation of the naval construction efforts that started in 1971.
Besides resulting in transfer of advanced technology, the submarine construction project, he claimed, had changed quality culture and work methodology. A team of 300 engineers and technicians were trained in France. The foreign-trained personnel trained 600 more personnel in Pakistan in various construction skills of the submarine to meet the challenges of modern warfare in which submarines play a vital role.
Commodore Saeed said the Hamza submarine project was a significant leap in self-reliance in defence production and had enabled the PN to undertake more conventional submarine projects for its future needs.
http://www.dawn.com/2006/07/11/top7.htm
jawad——————————————————————————–
Pak Navy contributed enormously in fight against terror
Karachi— Despite limited previous experience in policing role, the Pakistan Navy fleet has contributed enormously in the campaign against terrorism, reflecting the national resolve to fight the menace in all its forms and manifestations.
This was stated by Commodore Khan Hasham Bin Siddiqui, Chief Staff Officer to Commander Pakistan Fleet, while briefing a French media team here on Saturday about Pakistan Navy’s role in the global war on terror.The Consul General of France in Karachi, Pierre Seillan, was also present on the occasion.
Commodore Hasham pointed out that following the unfortunate events of 9/11, the Government of Pakistan made a conscious policy decision to join hands with rest of the world to fight the menace of terrorism.
Ever since, Pakistani nation in generally and the armed forces in particular have been at the forefront and continue to make sacrifices to defeat the terrorist threat for the sake of a safer world, he stated.
Commodore Hasham said that being strategically located, Pakistan is indeed a pivotal and a natural ally for promoting the cause of global peace. He stated that the North Arabian Sea adjoining Pakistani coast constitutes a critical area to support efforts ashore. Pakistan Navy in line with the government’s decision has been an active partner of coalition navies in this area.
It was pointed out that given the importance accorded to war on terrorism, Pakistan Navy has fulfilled all its obligations towards the coalition even when Pakistan Navy units were required to be deployed for Tsunami relief operations and relief operations at home after the last year’s earthquake. The Commodore said that Pakistan Navy is participating in the Coalition Maritime Campaign Plan (CMCP), which is the maritime component of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF).
The CMCP nations which form part of the coalition at present include Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Pakistan, United States and United Kingdom. “ Pakistan Navy is proud to be the only regional navy to be fully involved in operations at sea side by side with other navies”, Commodore Hasham said.
He said that since joining CMCP, Pakistan Navy ships with have completed 12 deployments of two months each and presently PNS Tariq is on its third tour. It is a matter of satisfaction that all these deployments have been conducted successfully in an efficient and professional manner and during these deployments Pakistan Navy units have undertaken a variety of operations in support of the campaign.
Commodore Hasham noted that so far Pakistan Navy ships and helicopters have conducted around 5,000 querying and interception tasks. In addition, Pakistan navy ships have also been able to provide humanitarian assistance to various vessels and dhows on a number of occasions.
He said that in recognition of Pakistan Navy’s participation in the global war on terrorism and the professional excellence displayed, it has been assigned the responsibilities of Commander Task Force 150 at Headquarters USNAVCENT Bahrain from April to September 2006. The assumption of CTF 150 duties by a Pakistani senior officer in April this year has provided an unparalleled opportunity to Pakistan Navy to participate in the on-going CMCP at a much higher level of command.—APP
http://pakobserver.net/200605/21/ne…gainst%20terror
jawadGerman? French design again?
think that Marlin satnds first , yaun SSK second and Type-214 third :rolleyes:
SANG to expand its capabilities
ROBIN HUGHES JDW Deputy Editor and J A C LEWIS JDW Correspondent
London and Paris
The SANG is set to receive additional light armoured vehicles
SANG is also presumed the buyer of an unconfirmed contract for a number of CAESAR SP artillery systems
The Saudi Arabia National Guard (SANG) looks set to significantly augment its capabilities following the announcement of a major potential US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) agreement and an unconfirmed acquisition of the CAmion Equipe d’un Systeme d’ARtillerie (CAESAR) 155 mm/52 calibre self-propelled (SP) artillery system from France.
France’s Giat Industries on 20 July announced the sale of 76 of its CAESAR truck-mounted artillery systems to an unspecified foreign customer, widely believed in French defence circles to be the SANG.
Giat announced the sale during a visit to Paris by Saudi Arabia’s Defence Minister Crown Prince Sultan bin Abdal Aziz al Saud.
As Jane’s went to press on 21 July, Prince Sultan met with French Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin and Defence Minister Michele Alliot-Marie amid increasing expectation that Riyadh could award a number of major arms contracts to Paris. However, as Jane’s went to press no announcement had been made and diplomatic sources suggested that Prince Sultan might confine himself during his Paris stay to merely stating that Riyadh was intent on heightening military co-operation with France, leaving the actual arms deals to be made public at a later date. Prince Sultan said after a meeting with President Jacques Chirac on 20 July that “economic co-operation” with France “is an ongoing process”.
It was noted in Paris that the SANG, the presumed buyer of the CAESAR systems, answers directly to Saudi King Abdallah and not to Prince Sultan. Jane’s reported earlier in 2006 that the SANG had a requirement for a new lightweight towed or SP system and was assessing two contenders, including BAE Systems Land Systems’ 155mm/39 cal M777.
Recent French media reports said Saudi Arabia, in addition to buying CAESAR, was likely to place an order for 20 Cougar search and rescue and 10 NH90 military transport helicopters built by Eurocopter during Sultan’s trip. Also likely was the sale of 30 of Eurocopter’s Fennec helicopters for a Saudi pilot training school at Taef.
Riyadh was also thought to be interested in acquiring three Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport aircraft, taking an option on a further three. Elsewhere, DCN hopes to land a Saudi contract for its FREMM multi-mission frigates and for either its Scorpene or Marlin submarine.
*Separately, the US Defense Security Co-operation Agency (DSCA) on 20 July announced a potential FMS contract, in line with Washington’s efforts to support the modernisation of the SANG, which if all options were exercised has a potential value of some USD5.8 billion. The bulk of the Saudi request comprises the acquisition of some 724 General Dynamics Land Systems – Canada (GDLS-C) 8 x 8 light armoured vehicles (LAVs) and vehicle-mounted Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio Systems (SINGARS).
The SANG has already taken delivery of 1,117 LAV (light armoured vehicle)-IIs from the now GDLS-C, which included an acquisition of 73 120 mm turreted, armoured mortar systems. Fire support for these LAVs is provided by some 30 US-supplied 155 mm M198 and 40 105 mm M102 towed artillery systems.
According to the DSCA “the SANG will serve to make a key regional ally and partner in the global war on terror more capable of defeating those who would threaten regional stability and less reliant on the deployment of US combat forces to maintain or restore stability in the Middle East”.
In addition, Saudi Arabia has also requested a potential USD350 million FMS acquisition of 24 UH-60L Black Hawk utility/assault helicopters and an accompanying logistics package in support of the Royal Saudi Land Forces’ (RSLFs) ongoing domestic anti-terror operations. The RSLF already operate 12 S-70A-1 Desert Hawks in a similar role.”Saudi forces have used rotary wing assets in numerous anti-terrorism operations within their borders and view their ability to quickly move troops around the country as a critical capability,” the DSCA said.
SANG seeks new artillery (jdw.janes.com, 13/01/06)
FMS notification for SANG includes:
* 724 LAV-25, LAV-AG, LAV-M, LAV-AT, LAV-CC, LAV-PC, LAV-A, LAV-AC LAV-E and LAV-R light armoured vehicles;
* 1,160 AN/VRC-90E Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio Systems (SINCGARS) Vehicular Single Long-Range Radio Systems; * 627 AN/VRC-92E SINCGARS Vehicular Single Long-Range Radio Systems;
* 518 AN/VRC-119 E SINCGARS Vehicular Single Long-Range Radio Systems; * 2,198 SINCGARS Spearhead Handheld; * 1,700 AN/AVS-7D Night Vision Goggles (NVGs); * 432 AN/PVS-14 NVGs; * 630 AN/PAS-13 Thermal Weapon Sights; * 162 84mm Recoilless Rifles; and * Harris Corporation Commercial High Frequency Radios;
* various commercial vehicles; fixed facilities and ranges; simulators; generators; battery chargers; protective clothing; shop equipment; training devices; spare and repair parts; sets, kits, and outfits; support equipment; publications and technical data; personnel training and training equipment; contractor engineering and technical support services and other related elements of logistics support.
Jane’s Defence Weekly July 21st 2006
dont have the link but got it from def#ncetalk
jawadlastnight in interview on PTV By Ikram Sehgal naval chief said that PN negotiations for next generation submarines will complete in next few months
He also said that PN wants first boat to be made in pakistan but selling dockyard wants lead boat to be construct it in their yard
jawadPTV WORLD NEWS MORNING Today
Pakistan will launch its third indigenously built submarine, AGOSTA 90-B (PNS HAMZA) tomorrow
Few points from this programe
It is 76 meters long and weighs around 2,000 tons
Share of Pakistani private sector has increased by 50% in PNS HAMSA as compared to last A-90B submarine (PNS SAAD)
MESMA air-independent propulsion system will allow the AGOSTA 90B class submarine to remain submerged three times longer
He said that PN is negotiating for 5 next generation submarines
8 submarines is minimum figure for PN and submarine fleet will increase in number in future
At this moment PN can manufacture one submarine in two year and this rate will be maintained to keep work force and infrastructure intact
PN needs Land attack capability and that can be added when ever Govt take such decision
Next submarines negotiations include
1)Talk to reduce time period to one year per submarine
2)30% of this contract will be made by Pakistani private sector and foreign contactors are already in Pakistan working with private sector
jawadHere are the pics of IL-76, this might have nothing to do with with Chinese AWACS at all, and at the time I took the pics I did know that Chinese aircraft was present not far away. I thought IL-76 looked wicked and took the pics 😀 and I could not get the pics for AWACS, there was not enough time :/. It might just be there because of civilian purposes. I dont want to start any hmms and ifs 😉
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ukrainian_Cargo_Airways
http://www.cargo.ukraine-international.com/eng
Are AWACS based on IL-76 or Y-8 airframe?
jawadUS plans “significant” Pakistan missile sale
Wed May 31, 2006 1:33 PM ET
By Jim Wolf
WASHINGTON (Reuters) –
The Bush administration said Wednesday it was planning to let Pakistan buy advanced Boeing Co. Harpoon anti-ship missiles and related equipment valued at up to $370 million in “a significant upgrade” of the Asian nation’s existing weapons systems.
Of the total “Block II” Harpoon missiles sought by Pakistan, 50 would be for launch from submarines, 50 from surface ships and 30 by air, the Pentagon’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a notice to Congress required by law.
The equipment would provide “a significant upgrade to Pakistan’s existing systems and allow for improved target acquisition,” said the agency, which handles U.S. government-to-government weapons sales.
The notice does not mean that a sale has been concluded. In addition, Congress can interfere.
“This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a friendly country that continues to be a key ally in the global war on terrorism,” the agency added.
Chicago-based Boeing describes the advanced Harpoon as capable of knocking out coastal defenses, surface-to-air missile sites and exposed aircraft as well as ships in port. It uses a satellite-aided inertial navigation system.
The upgraded targeting capability “significantly reduces the risk of hitting noncombatant targets, thus improving Pakistan’s naval operational flexibility,” the agency told Congress.
Pakistan, which has fought three wars with neighboring India since partition of British India in 1947, plans to use the Harpoon on its Lockheed Martin Corp. P-3 maritime surveillance aircraft, surface ships and submarines, the agency said.
The Bush administration last June signed a 10-year defense pact with India outlining expanded two-way defense trade, missile-defense cooperation plans and increased opportunities for technology transfers and weapons co-production.Last year, Pentagon officials gave India a classified briefing on Patriot Advanced Capability (PAC-3) short-range missile defense systems built by Bethesda, Maryland-based Lockheed and Raytheon Co. of Waltham, Massachusetts.
© Reuters 2006. All rights reserved
Are these 130 Harpoon missiles are under a differenct deal then deal for 40 AGM-84L (air-launched) and 20 RGM-84L (surfaced-launched) ordered May of 2005 worth $130 million.
jawadCabinet okays purchase of $1bn AWACS
By Shakil Shaikh
ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet on Wednesday approved a proposal of purchasing $1 billion-plus airborne surveillance system — Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) – for Pakistan Air Force (PAF).
It is said that Sweden’s Saab will supply this system, as the Ericsson Microwave System will have one-third of the total deal. The cabinet approved the proposal with Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz in the chair, as representatives of Defence Production informed the meeting that Pakistan lacked in reliable early warning system of surveillance of its air space.
The cabinet was also informed that in order to safeguard the air defence of Pakistan it was deemed necessary to have the latest AWACS for the PAF fitted with state-of-the-art technology.
In March 2004, India and Israel had finalised a billion-dollar deal for the supply of three Falcon Airborne Early Warning Radar Systems. The Israeli-made system, fitted on Russian Ilyushian aircraft, was to be delivered within 44 months, on Indian advance payment.
Earlier reports revealed that Saab spokesman Peter Larsson said, “We have a deal with Pakistan and a few details would be settled before the contract becomes effective.” In the recent past, Pakistan’s air and naval attache in Washington Group Captain Nadeem Javed said Pakistan also had considered burying the Boeing 737 AEWS airborne warning system but settled for Erieye because the Boeing was too expensive.
The plane, which is used as a platform alone, would have cost between $60-70 million and the price tag would have increased considerably after adding the surveillance system. In the Erieye system Saab provides the plane while Ericsson provides the surveillance equipment.
Saab has already announced that the airborne surveillance system includes Saab 2000 turboprop aircraft equipped with Erocsson’s airborne radar system Erieye. The surveillance system, together with the existing ground-based radars, is expected to provide a more detailed picture, enabling Pakistan to detect different threats to the country.
The system could also help coordinate relief flights after a natural disaster. Following the presentation of this AWACS, the cabinet gave a go-ahead to the Defence Production Ministry with the prime minister and the cabinet members congratulating and expressing their gratitude for the Peoples’ Republic of China for their valuable support and cooperation in building the JF-17 thunder fighter aircraft in the PAC Kamra.
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz observed that public complaints of load- shedding must be addressed expeditiously. The minister for water and power briefed the cabinet on the situation of water and electricity. The cabinet was informed that because of the recent rains and rise in temperature in Northern Areas, there was about three million acre feet water available in the country which was sufficient not only for meeting requirements of the forthcoming Kharif crop but also cater to the high demand of electricity during the summer season across the country.
The cabinet approved the proposed National Plan of Action for Children introduced by the Ministry of Social Welfare and Special Education. This plan aims at making Pakistan a child-friendly state by implementing child related international and regional commitments leading to tangible development in the fields of survival, protection, development and participation of children in a variety of nation-building activities.
In fact, this plan provides greater sensitivity and government commitment in the areas of child health, education and protection. Subsequent to the cabinet approval, the activities envisaged under the National Plans of Action for children would be carried out by the relevant ministries under the PSFP over next 10 years.
The foreign secretary briefed the cabinet on the latest developments on Afghanistan. While showing concern on drug trafficking and illicit gun running from Afghanistan side, the cabinet desired that greater understanding and communication be established with the Afghan government to manage this problem. It was decided that frequent and regular communication must be developed on the operational side to ensure better understanding and coordination.
The cabinet was given a briefing on the status of construction of Gwadar and Islamabad airports. Shaukat Aziz said Gwadar would be “an open sky airport”. He also directed that groundwork on the construction of Islamabad airport must be accelerated.
The meeting also discussed export of mango and oranges/Kinoos. The prime minister said necessary infrastructure in this context must be developed quickly. He said Multan needs to be branded as “mango city” around the world. After some discussion, a three-member inter-ministerial committee was ordered by the cabinet to firm up short- and long-term recommendations for boosting fruit exports form Pakistan. This committee has been asked to finalise their recommendations before the next cabinet meeting.
The cabinet ratified conventions between the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Jordan for avoidance of double taxation and prevention of fiscal evasion with respect of taxes on income. The convention shall apply to persons who are residents of one or both of the contracting states.
The cabinet revised an agreement already existing between Pakistan and Ireland for avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income. The agreement has a special significance in the break-ground of long history of economic relations between the two states, which has expanded manifold with the passage of time. It will revitalise Pakistan economic activities by boosting its exports and enhanced interaction with developed economy of the Ireland.
The cabinet also approved the initiation of negotiations with Syria for a free trade agreement. The purpose is to enhance meagre volume of trade between the two countries through liberalisation of trade in goods and services and the elimination of trade barriers.
The cabinet gave ex-post facto approval for signing of trade agreement between Pakistan and Algeria. The agreement will help foster and deepen bilateral economic relations and enhance the confidence of both the countries.
The cabinet also gave ex-facto approval of an important MoU signed between the Ministries of Communication of the governments of Pakistan and China for upgradation of the Karakorum Highway. The MoU envisages establishment of joint working group, dispatch of Chinese experts to Pakistan for joint site technical studies with Pakistani experts on the KKH and submission of technical report from both the sides on specific technical standards.
The cabinet approved the signing of an agreement with the government of Arab Republic of Egypt on the abolition of visa for the nationals of two countries holding diplomatic and official passports. This agreement shall benefit both the contracting states by way of providing easier opportunities of people’s movement.
In order to further strengthen the long-standing brotherly and historic links of culture and geographical proximity between Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan, the cabinet approved to initiate a process of establishing sister-city relations between Bishkek and Quetta. Such relations, once established, will promote reciprocal exchange of business delegation and cultural heritage.
The cabinet gave also its ex post facto approval of agreement for establishment of Pak-Brunei Joint Investment Company. The authorized capital of the company will be $25 million. The aim is to consolidate joint efforts to promote economic cooperation between Pakistan and Brunei for the purpose of investing in the industrial, manufacturing and non-manufacturing sector, financial services and marketing of their products in Pakistan and abroad.
The cabinet ratified Montreal Convention, which aims at setting a modern standard of international best practice that is being followed by the government of Pakistan in line with the WTO “Singapore Issue” of trade facilitation. The cabinet approved the signing of agreement for cooperation in agriculture between the government’s of Pakistan and Vietnam.
http://www.thenews.com.pk/top_story_detail.asp?Id=1009
ARYONE WORLD NEWS also says that The Federal Cabinet has given the go-ahead to the Ministry of Defence for production{urdu word was “te-ari”} of an airborne early warning systems in country to meet the growing needs of air defence in Pakistan :confused:
jawadhttp://jang.com.pk/thenews/apr2006-daily/13-04-2006/main/main4.htm
Cabinet briefed about Karachi situation
Census in 2008; purchase of F-16s from US,
FC-10 high-tech planes from China okayed
ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet on Wednesday strongly condemned the Nishtar Park blast and condoled with the bereaved families of the victims, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Sheikh Rashid Ahmed said.
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz chaired the meeting, which also offered Fateha for the departed souls and early recovery of the injured people, the minister said while briefing the media. He said the cabinet expressed determination to bring those behind the despicable act to justice and give them exemplary punishment.
Interior Minister Aftab Ahmed Khan Sherpao gave a detailed briefing on the law and order situation in the aftermath of the blast in Karachi and the steps being taken to beef up security.
Rashid said the families of those killed in the incident would be paid financial compensation of Rs 300,000 each while the injured would be given Rs 50,000 each.
He said President Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz have directed the concerned authorities to make all-out efforts for the care and early recovery of the injured. The cabinet appealed to Ulema in Karachi to come forward and play their role in improving the law and order situation and join the hands of the government to expose the anti-Islamic and anti-development elements.
Replying to a question, he said the Karachi blast was the result of a suicide attack and the investigation agencies were also considering that there could have been two suicide attacks simultaneously. The interior minister also briefed the cabinet on the law and order situation in Balochistan and Fata.
The cabinet was also given a detailed briefing about bird flu and the federal health minister said there was no threat of the disease and chicken could be used freely as a routine diet as in the past.
Rashid said the cabinet approved to hold the next census in 2008, which would be held exactly after a decade as the last census was held in 1998. He said the cabinet reiterated that media enjoys full liberty in the country and the democratic process was flourishing in accordance with the needs and requirements of the masses.
The minister said the cabinet expressed the resolve to hold general elections according to schedule and in complete conformity with the constitution. He said this would be for the first time that the parliament would complete its specified term.
Giving details about the meeting of National Command Authority, held with President Pervez Musharraf in the chair, Rashid said it allowed the purchase of F-16 aircraft from the US and high-tech aircraft from China.
He said the batch of F-16 aircraft would include “A & B” type (delivery of the same aircraft was denied by the US in 90s following Pressler amendments) and “C & D” modern versions.
The high-tech aircraft FC-10 type to be purchased from China would be in addition to the JF-17 (Thunder) aircraft being built jointly by Pakistan and China, he said. Answering a question, he said the country’s nuclear capability fulfils the present as well as the future deterrence needs of national defence.
http://news.ft.com/cms/s/77f14c88-ca52-11da-852f-0000779e2340.html
Pakistan to buy F-16s from US
By Farhan Bokhari in Islamabad, Pakistan
Published: April 12 2006 20:11 | Last updated: April 12 2006 20:11
Pakistan’s cabinet on Wednesday gave clearance to the purchase of up to 77 F-16 fighter planes from the US, marking a significant expansion for the country’s air force.
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The Pakistani government did not reveal the price it would pay for the deal, nor did it say when the aircraft would be delivered. But according to western diplomats in Islamabad, the F-16s could cost Pakistan U$3-3.5bn.
While announcing the cabinet’s agreement to the F-16 purchase, Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, Pakistan’s information minister, revealed that the cabinet had also given approval for the purchase of an unspecified number of Chinese fighter aircraft known as FC-10s.
Last November, General Pervez Musharraf, Pakistan’s military ruler, suspended plans for the purchase of new fighter aircraft. Pakistan was then concerned that donors eager to help deal with the aftermath of a devastating earthquake would pull out if the country planned to spend money on planes. Pakistan was seeking more than U$6bn in international aid for relief and reconstruction work. Foreign donors have now offered about $6.2bn.
“Obviously, General Musharraf is confident that the worst following the earthquake is now comfortably behind Pakistan,” said a senior western diplomat in Islamabad.
Buying the aircraft could help General Musharraf politically. Pakistani nationalists have questioned his support for the US-led war on terror, saying the US often benefits more from the relationship than Pakistan.
“The failure to secure new F-16s was often cited as evidence of a policy failure in relations with the US,” said a senior Pakistani official, after Wednesday’s cabinet meeting. “Now, a new agreement for F-16s could help to address that failure”.
jawadhttp://www.zeenews.com/znnew/articles.asp?aid=287908&sid=SAS
Pak clears purchase of F-16 fighter jets from US
Islamabad, Apr 12: Pakistan Cabinet today approved the buying of 77 F-16 fighter planes from the US as also FC-10 high-tech combat aircraft from China, reversing a decision in the wake of last year’s devastating earthquake to put off such purchases.
The Cabinet has approved the summary presented by Pakistan Air Force (PAF) to purchase the latest version of F16s and materialise the purchase of ABS F-16s besides procurement of FC-10 high-tech fighter aircraft from China, Information Minister Sheikh Rashid told reporters here.
Geo TV reported earlier that approval has been given by the Cabinet, which met under chairmanship of Prime Minister Shoukat Aziz, to buy a mix of old and new F-16 planes.
Following the October 8 earthquake that ravaged parts of Pakistan, President Pervez Musharraf had put off a decision to buy F-16s at a cost of around USD three billion.
The decision was taken in order to mobilise international funding for relief and reconstruction of quake- hit areas in Pak-occupied Kashmir and North-west Frontier province. Subsequently, international donors had made commitments worth around USD seven billion for reconstruction.
The US, which lifted the ban on F-16s sales to Pakistan last year, said Pakistan was welcome to buy any number of F-16s.
Following the quake, however, Pakistan reportedly scaled down plans to buy latest models of the aircraft fitted with beyond visual range (BVRs) missile systems but opted instead to buy a mix of used and new planes.
Pakistan Air Force currently has about 30 F-16 fighters which it had bought in 1980s. This is the first time it would be buying the new planes following removal of curbs by Bush administration.
In addition to its plans to refurbish its ageing fleet with new and used F-16s, PAF also has been acquiring used French-made Mirrage aircraft and stepped up plans for joint production of JF-17 thunder fighter aircraft in collaboration with China.
A facility to manufacture some of the parts was inaugurated in Pakistan recently and a plane has been test-flown.
According to reports, the engines for JF-17 thunder were being supplied by Russia.
Musharraf had also evinced interest in the new multi-role fighter jet J-10 being developed by China during his February visit to the country.
http://www.nation.com.pk/daily/april-2006/13/index2.php
Cabinet okays Chinese, F-16 jets procurement
From our correspondent
ISLAMABAD — Approving the procurement of F-16s as well as Chinese fighters, the Federal Cabinet on Wednesday resolved to maintain credible air defence of the country.
At the outset of the meeting under Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz the cabinet condemned the Karachi suicide bomb blast, Federal Information Minister Sheikh Rashid brief the media here about the meeting.
He, however, said it was not yet clear whether it was a sectarian violence or a foreign backed act of terror.
The cabinet decided not to call out Army for law enforcement in Karachi as police and Rangers were controlling the post-blast situation in the provincial capital, the minister responded to a questioner.
However, he said, army troops were carrying out flag march in sensitive areas of the city.
According to Sheikh Rashid, Interior Minister Aftab Sherpao briefed the cabinet on the overall security situation in Karachi and the cabinet termed security situation under control and ordered immediate arrest of the culprits.
To a question about the strike in reaction to the blast killing over 50 people, the minister said, Pakistan is a democratic country and its people are free to express their emotions.
According to the minister, heirs of the blast victims would be paid Rs 300,000 each as compensation and the injured would get Rs 50,000 each.
To a question about the recent American desire for civilian rule in Pakistan over military and its linkage to the return of former Prime Ministers in exile, Sheikh Rashid said US Assistant Secretary of State Boucher himself had responded to a similar question that this was Pakistan’s internal matter.
Earlier, the Health Minister informed the cabinet that there was no bird flu in the country and the local chicken meat was safe of such viruses.
According to the information minister, Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz while addressing the cabinet, said in categorical terms that the current assemblies would complete their tenure and the next elections would be held towards the end of 2007 or early 2008.
Rashid said the cabinet also noted the issue of President General Pervez Musharraf’s military uniform and decided that this issue would be decided in 2007 according to the Constitutional provisions. Asked about the interim government after the completion of the current assemblies tenure, Sheikh Rashid said it was premature to say anything in this regard.
The cabinet also decided to hold national population census in 2008, as it was required after every ten years, he said. To a question, he added, it might not be possible to hold early next elections as the same would be due not before the start of the year 2008 and it would a process requiring months if not a year.
During the meeting the cabinet also approved the privatization of the Pakistan Telecom Company Limited.
While giving details of the aircraft to be bought from both US and China, Sheikh Rashid said Pakistan would get both new version of F-16s called CD as well as AB-version the older one in addition to high-tech Chinese fighters.
The federal cabinet, he said, reiterated its resolve to maintain credible defence and meet the needs of Pakistan Air Force.
The interior minister briefed the cabinet also on the situation in Blochistan and Waziristan.
jawadThe Indian Air Force urgently needs generation-next aircraft, even though the ageing MiGs remain a credible force. The upgraded MiG-Bisons are equipped with modern avionics nonetheless without thrust vectoring and dual-engines. To counter the high cost of acquiring new aircraft, India launched the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) project named Tejas. Even though the LCA has yet not been fully inducted into the armed forces, nonetheless, with its cost at about US $8 million (Rs 36 crore) a piece, as compared to the Russian built Sukhoi-30 costing $ 35 million (Rs 158 crore) or the French Rafael costing $ 70 million (Rs 315 crore), the LCA is the best bet for India to replace the MiGs. For the cost of one French Rafael, India can make nine LCAs. In the decade 1990-2000, the Air Force lost about 172 MiGs in peacetime crashes more than its combined war losses of 115 aircrafts. India has paid a very heavy price for the delays in LCA project. In 1996, India started a US $ 340 million (Rs 1,530 crore) MiG upgrade program. The upgrading of the 125 MiG-21s is expected to enable the IAF to extend the life of the jet upto 2015, the time the LCA is expected to be inducted into the armed forces. It is not long when India would join the elite club of nations, which export sate-of-the-art aircrafts to other countries! A popular slogan “Param vaibhavam netume tatsvarashtram” (Taking the nation towards its ultimate glory) seems to be coming true as far as the LCA is concerned.
8m$ for a LCA
Mr Varun Gandhi tusi gr8 ho
jawadi dont think that its just SU-27/30 series what pakistan is looking from Russia
they are also interested in Air defence systems and perhapes in long run some thing for navy and army?
But this will take its time
jawadI seriously doubt russia would supply anything other than choppers. The J-10 purchase is due to US scroning pakistan and paucity of funds to buy F-16 currently. Russian, F-16 , J-10 and JF-17..four different planes for the cash starved PAF?? lets be serious.
They started with Mil Mi-17 with china 😉
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