Patrol aircraft, latest drones added to Pakistan Navy fleet

Maritime patrol aircraft and unmanned aerial systems which would enhance the operational capability of the air arm of the Pakistan Navy were inducted into the force, said a statement on Saturday.

The spokesman for the navy said that the induction ceremony of the state-of-the-art maritime patrol aircraft and tactical unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the Pakistan Navy Fleet was held at Karachi. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi graced the occasion as chief guest.

Speaking on the occasion, the naval chief highlighted the role of the Pakistan Navy in safeguarding the maritime frontiers and ensuring the safety of sea lines of communication.

He said the induction of marinized ATR aircraft with weapons and sensors would substantially enhance the operational capabilities of the navy’s fleet air arm. Moreover, the induction of another ATR in the cargo/ para-drop role would provide added flexibility to the special forces’ operations.

The chief guest further added that the induction of LUNA NG unmanned aerial vehicles in the fleet’s air arm would further augment the navy’s intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities in the maritime domain, especially in the Creeks areas and along the coastal belt.

Admiral Abbasi urged the crew of the newly inducted ATRs & unmanned aerial vehicles to make optimum utilisation of these platforms in order to contribute effectively towards the combat potential of the Pakistan Navy Fleet.

Appreciating the detection of an Indian submarine by Pakistan Navy aircraft in the post-Pulwama standoff, the naval chief said that “I am glad that PN Aviation Fleet proved its mastery and made the whole nation proud”.

He advised the aviators to keep the same spirit and be prepared for any eventuality that might rise anytime. He also highlighted that the Pakistan Navy’s developmental plans included acquisition of unmanned combat aerial vehicles in support of maritime operations, too.

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