KARACHI, Jan 3: While the last year induction of modified P3C aircraft and PNS Azmat into the naval fleet was a significant landmark, PNS Aslat and PNS Dehshat being built at the Karachi Shipyard will be formally inducted into the fleet this year to further augment the defence capability of Pakistan Navy.

These views were expressed by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Mohammad Asif Sandila while speaking as the chief guest at the annual efficiency competition parade and awards ceremony of Pakistan Navy for the year 2012 held at the PN Dockyard on Thursday.

Besides, the ageing Fokkers would be replaced with ATR-72 aircraft, he added.

“I would like to stress that the Government of Pakistan is fully cognisant of the force goals of Pakistan Navy, thus despite an economic crunch, our requirements are being addressed to the best of our needs,” he said.

The rapid changes in the technologies for defence equipment, especially maritime warfare and latest developments in naval strategies, demanded optimum professional capabilities and the highest level of proficiency, he said.

However, he said, the acquisition of modern defence equipment alone was not the path to success but equally important were professional capability and teamwork for success.

“Taking cognisance of this need, in order to enhance the training standard and make it more effective, we have declared 2013 to be the ‘Year for Training’. I am confident that if all of us devote maximum attention to training, there will be overall progress in Pakistan Navy,” the naval chief observed.

Apart from PN fleet’s various successful operations, the effective execution of exercises RIBAT and SEASPARK were prominent achievements, he said, adding that missile and torpedo firings also played an effective role in enhancing PN’s war preparedness, confidence and training.

According to a PN statement issued on Thursday, the efficiency parade, held every year, signifies professional achievements of naval fleet units over past 12 months.

In his welcome address, Pakistan Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Zakaullah earlier recounted the operational achievements of PN fleet during the year 2012.

In the end, Admiral Sandila gave away shields and congratulated the winners.—APP