army

March 2004

Nigeria and Pakistan in talks over military cooperation

Nigeria and Pakistan are this week holding detailed talks over developing increased military cooperation, Nigeria's defence spokesman said Tuesday.

The talks on military equipment and training began on Monday after the arrival of General Mohammed Aziz Khan, the chairman of Pakistan's Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Colonel Ganiyu Adewale told AFP.

"The general is in Nigeria for a five-day visit bordering on all areas of military cooperation between Nigeria and Pakistan," he said.

He said Khan will visit military installations and formations in Abuja, Lagos and Kaduna and meet with President Olusegun Obasanjo before leaving to return home on Friday.

Nigeria and Pakistan, members of the British Commonwealth, have both been important contributors to recent UN peacekeeping missions, and both have in recent years deployed forces on home territory to counter Islamic extremism.

Pakistan-Germany discuss role in UN, peacekeeping and Human Rights

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Germany on Wednesday discussed wide spectrum of issues, including UN reform, peacekeeping, fight against international terrorism, UN role in Iraq, Afghanistan and, issues before the Commission on Human rights.

Ambassador Hans-Joachim Daerr, Director General Global Issues, the UN, and Human Rights in the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who is currently visiting Pakistan, held delegation level talks with Tariq Osman Hyder, Additional Secretary (UN&EC).

Both sides agreed that there was a need to reform the United Nations to make it effective and responsive to the challenges of the 21st century. Pakistan and Germany are currently members of the UN Security Council.

Ambassador Daerr lauded Pakistan's contribution of troops and other personnel in support of the UN peacekeeping efforts.

The Pakistani side briefed him on Pakistan's proposal for establishing a Peacekeeping Training Institute, stating that Pakistani troops and other personnel had gained substantial experience in peacekeeping, which they could share with others.

On UN's role in Iraq, both sides welcomed the recent initiative of the UN Secretary General and agreed to maintain close liaison on the matter.

Both sides stressed that the international community should continue to provide support to the ongoing efforts in Afghanistan aimed at promoting peace and creating stability. Both sides agreed to maintain close coordination on global fight against terrorism.

Chinese defence minister to visit Pakistan on 23rd

ISLAMABAD: Chinese Defence Minister Gen Cao Gang Chuan will pay a three-day official visit to Pakistan from March 23 to March 26 to talk with senior Pakistani officials about increasing Sino-Pak defence cooperation, sources told Daily Times on Sunday.

Sources said 21 Chinese Defence Ministry officials would accompany Gen Chuan.

Gen Chuan would meet President Pervez Musharraf, Prime Minister Zafarullah Jamali, Defence Minister Rao Sikandar Iqbal, Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Chairman Gen Aziz Khan and the three services chiefs, sources said, adding that President Musharraf would host a lunch in Gen Chuan and his delegation’s honour. They said the visit was important because Gen Chuan was the Chinese Central Military Commission deputy chairman, state councillor as well as the defence minister. Gen Chuan would arrive in Pakistan on the evening of March 22 and would be received by Pakistani Defence Minister Iqbal, sources said, adding that he would be accorded a guard of honour at the Defence Ministry on the morning of March 23.

He would also visit Taxila and was likely to visit Kamra as well, sources added. They said Gen Chuan would go to Lahore and attend a lunch hosted by Punjab Governor Lt Gen (r) Khalid Maqbool on March 24.

Turkish commander coming on March 10

ISLAMABAD (March 10 2004): The Turkish Air Force's Commander, General Halil Ibrahim Firtina would visit Pakistan from March 10 and call on Pakistan President, Defence Minister; Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and Chief of the Air Staff.

The Turkish General, along with his wife and three-member delegation would visit from March 10-14 on the invitation of Pakistan Air Force.

After graduation from Turkish Air Force Academy in 1962, General Halil Ibrahim Firtina got his status as a fighter pilot in 1964. During his illustrious career he held number of Command and Staff appointments.

He assumed command of Turkish Air Force on 30th August, last year.

Pakistani troops leave for Liberia

KARACHI (March 04 2004): Donned in blue barrets and in camouflaged uniform, a group of Pak Army troops left here on Wednesday to participate in the UN mission in Liberia.

The main body comprised the troops from Infantry, which would contribute to rebuild the troubled African State under the UN aegis, according to the ISPR. More infantry troops will re-enforce the departing party in the next few weeks.

Pak Army contingent as part of the UMMIL (United Nations Mission in Liberia) tracks network in its area of responsibility along with the rehabilitation work of important building, hospitals, schools, mosque and churches etc.

The UMMIL peacekeepers are very busy in maintaining law and order to secure peace and at the same time Pak contingent is facilitating the rehabilitation task ie medical services, distribution of rations and provision of drinking water etc.

Efforts of Pakistani troops towards humanitarian assistance have been duly recognised within the local populace. General Officer Commanding, Major General Ahsan Azhar Hayat bid farewell to the departing soldiers.

Gen Yusaf visits Badin

BADIN: Vice Chief of Army Staff Gen Muhammad Yusaf Khan on Thursday visited Badin and witnessed the troops busy in training activities.

General Yusaf Khan, during informal talk with troops on the occasion, highlighted the compelling need for Pakistan Army to be trained, organised and equipped physically, intellectually and morally to cope with the demands and challenges of the future environments.

He appreciated the motivation, commitment and high standards of professionalism displayed by the officers and seen during the ongoing training activities. He specially commended the innovations that were shown to him prepared by young officers and junior cadres.

The vice chief of Army staff was also driven through the cantonment. He appreciated the efforts put in by all ranks in maintaining and improving the area. Earlier, Gen Yusuf was given a detailed briefing on operational and administrative aspects of the garrison.

Pakistan acquires UK Banshee

Meggitt's Banshee 400 target drone has taken on a new role-as a reconnaissance UAV. Pakistan became the first customer for the new recce version earlier this year, according to Meggitt defense systems managing director Terry Timms.

"We have always had the capability to retrofit the Banshee with a reconnaissance package to give it a limited capability in that role," he says.

More than 3,000 Banshee target drones have now been delivered to 42 countries, the most recent being Egypt, Kuwait, Abu Dhabi and Malaysia. The latter bought 20 target aircraft fitted with Meggitt Doppler radar scoring (miss distance indicator) equipment, a suite of command and support equipment, and spares.-J.M.

Musharraf offers troop reduction

ISLAMABAD: President Pervez Musharraf on Saturday offered India a mutual and proportional reduction of forces and said Pakistan was only maintaining a force level based on perceived threat and minimum deterrence.

The president also said the acquisition of nuclear and other sophisticated weapons had made the region one of the most dangerous in the world and the two nations needed to scale back.

“Why can’t our defence expenditure be cut down? It certainly can,” he told a seminar, the India Today Conclave, in New Delhi in a televised speech.

“With the enhancement of the firepower of our weapons, we are already reducing the strength of our army by 50,000. We have kept our defence budget frozen for the past four years. India has to review its own strategy because your defence force levels are not based on threat but on power projection,” he told the seminar. “Pakistan will remain amenable to mutual, proportional reduction of forces,” he said.

The president said it was the ideal time to resolve all disputes and usher in an era of peace and prosperity. “The peoples of our countries want it, the influential business community is eagerly looking forward to it, the media favours it.” The president said it should not take long to fashion a roadmap to progress and prosperity but the leaders on both sides must be sincere to develop confidence in each other. “They have to be flexible enough to reach mutually acceptable solutions to previously intractable disputes and bold enough to bulldoze all opposition and risks en route to peace.”

“We have to show enough maturity to be able to resolve disputes bilaterally within a reasonable timeline,” he said. “It is only our failure which then invites third party mediation, facilitation, involvement or encouragement.”

“The issue of Kashmir is at centre stage. It must be resolved in an honourable and equitable manner, acceptable to India, Pakistan and Kashmiris,” Musharraf told the India Today Conclave.

“Sooner or later Kashmiris must join the peace process on Kashmir to make a solution practicable,” the president said. No leader in Pakistan could think of sidelining the Kashmir issue, he added. “If India takes one step, we are prepared to take two steps forward. India will find Pakistan sincere and responsive. We must persevere, but if there is no movement towards a solution, everything will fly back to square one,” he added.

President Musharraf said a joint statement signed with India during the SAARC summit had provided a good framework to work towards peace.

“The composite dialogue scheduled for May and June augurs well for our future relations. Firstly, there is a linkage between confidence building measures and the dialogue process,” President Musharraf said. “We would not like to move fast with confidence-building measures if the dialogue process is not moving forward.”

The president added that a gas pipeline could be laid from Iran to India through Pakistan, which could cut energy costs by half.

“Tourism can flourish. Combined regional tours could benefit us all. This will lead to a fund for the social sector. Lastly, sports activities could be enhanced,” he said. “We must be aware, however, there are extremists on both sides who will try to derail the peace process. We must be prepared to deal with them with an iron hand,” he added.

General Musharraf congratulated the Indians on their cricket team’s victory over Pakistan in Karachi. —Agencies

Army to use software for recruitment test in medical corps

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Army has recently bought software for online recruitment tests from the National Database and Regional Authority, sources told Daily Times on Sunday.

“The software has been prepared to check manipulation and external interference in the recruitment process. Now the computer will judge the worth and competency of a candidate and prepare an automated merit list of candidates who would be called in for interviews,” an official told Daily Times.

To begin with, the Army will use the software for recruitment to its medical corps, sources said. The software titled ‘Online Testing’ was used by NADRA internally on an experimental basis and was put on sale in the open market. “Not only government departments but even private sector companies and offices can buy this programme which has been proven compatible for all recruitment cases.

“Be it a managerial post, professional induction or entry test to exams, this online test suits the needs of the employer to uphold the rule of merit.”

The results of the test would eliminate chances of any manipulation in a bid to uphold the policy of merit and the culture of ‘parchi’ and ‘sifarish’ in the recruitment process. Once a department adopts and applies this software for recruitment purpose, it becomes next to impossible to rig the ongoing process, sources said.

Chinese army to strengthen military ties with Pakistan

BEIJING (March 23 2004): The Chinese army was committed to consolidating military exchanges and co-operation with Pakistan.

"These kinds of relations maintain good momentum, the Chinese Defence Minister, Cao Gangchuan said here in an interview before leaving on a five-day visit to Pakistan.

Cao, the Central Military Commission's vice-chairman also, said the visit was in line with China's diplomatic efforts to build a good neighbourly relationship and partnership with neighbouring countries, and aims to consolidate and develop mutual understanding and trust, as well as deepen bilateral friendship and co-operation.

He said, "China is willing to actively create a harmonious, stable and peaceful regional political and security environment with all Asian countries including Pakistan".

The Chinese people and their armed forces had always regarded Pakistan as their sincere, reliable and trustworthy friend and brother, the Minister said, adding the Chinese side had always been willing to make joint efforts with Pakistan to go on advancing the army-to-army friendly and co-operative relations.

Commenting on Pak-China joint declaration on bilateral co-operation last November, on the relations between the two countries and their armed forces, Cao said, "the Sino-Pakistani friendship has maintained continuous growth since the establishment of diplomatic relations despite the fast-changing international situation.

The Chinese government appreciates Pakistan's unswerving support in international affairs, he said, adding that China was ready to further deepen the bilateral co-operation with Pakistan in various fields, so as to inject new vitality in to bilateral friendly relations.

The two armed forces had frequent fruitful exchanges and co-operation at various levels in various fields," he said, expressing the hope that the bilateral military relations would continue to make new progress in the future

The delegation, during its stay in Islamabad, was scheduled to meet President Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali, besides other high-ranking Civil and military officials.

A senior Defence official told newsman in Beijing that the two sides would review the existing co-operation as well as to discuss the future strategy for strengthening their decades old strategic partnership in the defence sector.

The defence relations between the two countries had always been a great source of building confidence and self-reliance.

Their armed forces were working together in a spirit of safeguarding national sovereignty and promoting regional peace, stability and development, he added.

20 Mashaks ready for delivery to Saudi Arabia

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has informed Saudi Arabia that 20 Super Mashak aircraft are ready for delivery. The twin-seat light aircraft is the best machine for aerial surveillance. Minister of State for Defence Production Maj (retd) Habibullah Warraich said Wednesday that as the Riyadh government releases payment, the planes would be dispatched to Saudi Arabia.

The minister of state, who accompanied President Musharraf to Saudi Arabia, said these aircraft are equipped with sophisticated instruments and meant for training even at low altitude. The agreement for the sale/purchase of planes has already been finalised between the two brotherly countries. Each aircraft will cost Saudi Arabia around 20 million rupees, he added.

To a question, he said the Saudi government has deferred purchase and payment of Al-Zarrar tanks and Armoured Personnel Careers (APCs) because of the huge debts. Saudi Arabia has to offset loan worth US$ 200 billion. The expenses are the result of first Gulf war but the Saudi government would be able to clear the burden in a couple of years, he hoped.

To a question, the minister said Saudi Arabia has assured Pakistan that it will purchase tanks, APCs and other equipment but Islamabad will have to wait for some time. The minister made it clear that Pakistan did not take up the issue of supply of oil free of cost or on defer payment to Pakistan as President Musharraf advised all members of his entourage not to raise the matter with the host.

Flight testing the FC-1/JF-17

Flight International 23 Mar 2004

Chengdu Aircraft has completed around 20 sorties of its first FC-1/JF-17 prototype since the type made its maiden flight last August. The company will roll out a second flying prototype at the end of this month, while the programme's third flight-test airframe and a fatigue-test article are in assembly. A fifth, static-test article is already in use.

Russia's Klimov RD-93 has been picked to power the fighter, and the prototype aircraft are equipped with Chinese avionics. A more advanced avionics suite will be installed after the project's performance evaluation phase concludes late this year and before the systems evaluation phase begins.

Pakistan, expected to acquire about 200 JF-17s, will decide on an avionics package next year. Pakistan Aeronautical Complex-assembled Fiar Grifo S7 and Elta EL/M-2032 fire-control radars are among the systems under consideration to equip its aircraft.

Pakistani company will construct lightweight fighters and trainers for air force at Kamra factory and aims for exports

Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) is preparing to begin assembling next year its first Chinese-developed FC-1/JF-17 lightweight fighters and K-8 Karakorum basic/ advanced trainers for the Pakistani air force and for potential export customers.

The company's aircraft manufacturing plant in Kamra aims to build 50% of each aircraft sold outside China. It produces just under 20% of the K-8, and participates in the Chengdu Aircraft-led FC-1/JF-17 development programme.

Chengdu is responsible for building all five prototype fighters for the joint Sino-Pakistani programme. But PAC will be in charge of final assembly for eight of the 16 initial production aircraft, which are due for completion by early 2007. Serial or high-rate production of the design will begin late the same year.

PAC plans to build capability on the design gradually, starting with final assembly operations next year and later adding the manufacture of major components such as the wing, so that it can build half of each JF-17 from about 2009. "We have to prepare ourselves, [and] that work has already begun," says Air Cdre Zakir Khan, managing director of the Kamra factory.

PAC is drawing on its experience in building Mushshak piston trainers and K-8 subassemblies. The company will roll out its first Kamra-assembled K-8 in 2006, a few months before completing its first JF-17.

PAC already supplies China's Hongdu Aviation Industry with K-8 front fuselages, horizontal stabilisers and other components that combined account for 18-19% of the aircraft. It will also assume responsibility for structure/wing fabrication, final assembly and testing. A Pakistani air force requirement to replace its Cessna T-37s and Shenyang FT-5s with 55 K-8s from 2007 is driving this expansion in PAC's K-8 capability.

Pakistan's army operates eight Hongdu-assembled K-8s. Other operators include China, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Zambia. A joint PAC/Hongdu marketing team is promoting the design to several African and Middle Eastern countries, with the option of Chinese or Pakistani assembly. A PAC/Chengdu team has begun marketing the FC-1/JF-17 to other nations with the same assembly options.

Corps Commander visits Malir Garrison

KARACHI (March 20 2004): Corps Commander Lieutenant General Ahsan Saleem Hyat was given a briefing on the newly inducted state of the art Al-Khalid Tank at Malir Garrison here on Friday morning.

On arrival, the Corps Commander was received by Major General Ahsan Azhar Hayat, General Officer Commanding, said an ISPR news release.

Lieutenant General Ahsan Saleem Hyat went around the regiment, saw the tanks and training of soldiers on simulator range. The Corps Commander also witnessed an infantry situational training demonstration. He lauded the efforts of all concerned and stressed bringing further improvement in battle efficiency of the troops by engaging them in mission-oriented training.

Italian team visits Joint Staff Headquarters

RAWALPINDI (March 18 2004): Head of Military Centre for Civil Defence, Brigadier General Guiseppe Santangelo, heading a five-member Italian Joint Staff delegation to Pakistan visited the Joint Staff Headquarters here on Wednesday.

During the meeting with Director General Joint Staff, Lieutenant General Shahid Siddiq Tirmizi professional matters were discussed.

Force reduction in the army

Addressing the India Today Conclave, General Pervez Musharraf talked about reducing the Pakistan army strength by 50,000 personnel. He said the proposed force reduction was part of Islamabad’s efforts to reduce its defence budget. He also called upon India to reciprocate the gesture by reducing its defence budget and making its military expenditure threat-responsive rather than using it to project power. What should we make of General Musharraf’s statement?

One aspect of the message is clear: General Musharraf wants the two countries to realise the needs of their peoples and do so by spending on socio-economic development. There is also a clear desire here to exploit the positive atmosphere created since the resumption of the peace process. On both counts, he must be appreciated. But the question is: How does he intend to go about restructuring the army?

His statement gives no details. The army’s spokesperson has talked about reducing administrative staff. That could, presumably, mean decreasing the number of clerical staff and/or JCOs and NCOs. There is also a likelihood of withdrawing orderlies from the officers and giving the officers some allowance to hire civilians as household help. The air force already does this. From this perspective, there is little possibility of any major reduction in the number of officers, which, incidentally, is necessary for any substantial decrease in the personnel cost of the army. Another possibility could be to not fill some of the vacancies on the administrative side. This could bring the numbers down, though not significantly.

But if force reduction were to be linked to restructuring, it would mean a complex exercise. Among other things, it would entail an evaluation of the current strength of officers and a review of what numbers are needed for optimal efficiency. We hope that the army’s restructuring cell in the GHQ, which has been operational since the mid-1990s, has done some evaluation of how the service should lose the fat without losing its punch. It is difficult to exactly assess the financial impact of restructuring because the defence budget has always been a one-line affair. Even if the proposed reduction takes place, it will be difficult to estimate its financial impact in terms of savings. It is interesting that General Musharraf has given no timeframe for effecting the proposed force reduction.

Would India bite? Not likely. At this stage the proposal is too sketchy for it to respond to it. Also, force levels have to be based on a country’s politico-military objectives. For India, it is linked to force projection. Indubitably, there are financial wastages in the defence sectors on both sides. But India is likely to make its own assessment of what it requires and how it is going to achieve it over the next decade or so. Pakistan has thus to decide whether it is prepared to do something unilaterally or would it undertake force reduction only if India reciprocates. We think the former option is more sensible, not least because defence-sector reform is in any case in order. But it must not let the army lose its teeth.

Army soldier killed in clash with drug smugglers

QUETTA (March 15 2004): An army soldier was killed and five others were injured in a clash with drug smugglers in a remote south-western town bordering Afghanistan, officials said on Sunday.

They said that a team of the army-led Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) launched a search operation on a tip off that drug smugglers were hiding in Chaghi district, some 300 kilometres west of Quetta on Saturday.

"The smugglers armed with heavy weapons opened indiscriminate fire on the ANF team resulting in injuries to six soldiers," an ANF officials said. One of them died of his injuries when the wounded soldiers were being flown in a helicopter to a military hospital in Quetta, said the official who did not want to be named. There was no recovery of narcotics and there were no arrests, he added.

Army to use software for recruitment test in medical corps

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Army has recently bought software for online recruitment tests from the National Database and Regional Authority, sources told Daily Times on Sunday.

“Be it a managerial post, professional induction or entry test to exams, this online test suits the needs of the employer to uphold the rule of merit.”

Army reform will improve defence, says ISPR chief

ISLAMABAD: Inter Services Public Relations Director General Major General Shaukat Sultan on Sunday said the restructuring of the Army was under way and it would improve the country’s defence.

He said a reduction in the number of troops would improve the Army’s professional capability and make it a small but a viable force. On President Pervez Musharraf’s comments that 50,000 Army personnel would be laid off, Major General Sultan said such reductions would only be made in administration and not in the fighting cadre. He denied that the move would reduce Pakistan’s defence capability, saying the reduction would create a balance between administration and troops and the money saved would be spent on improving defence.

He said Pakistan’s defence capability, which is based on advanced technology, would be developed further by introducing new technology. He said the move aimed to reduce defence expenditure, ease burden on the national exchequer and utilise available resources better. “Pakistan will not start an arms race with any country but will not compromise on its defence capability,” he added. —Online

Pakistan Navy participates in Arabian Shark-2004

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Navy frigate PNS Shahjahan, Tanker PNS MOAWIN, the sea king anti submarine helicopter and maritime petrol aircraft Atlantic have participated in a multilateral joint maritime exercise called Arabian Shark – 2004, which was conducted in the Gulf of Oman.

Arabian Shark maritime units of nine international navies, including the US, UK, France, Italy, Spain, Australia, Kuwait and Bahrain, participated in the exercise, said a statement issued by Naval Headquarters on Wednesday.

The joint maritime exercise had two phases, in the first phase harbour training, a pre-exercise development conference, joint staff planning and socials were held. Joint manoeuvres at sea and advanced tactical exercises with special emphasis on anti submarine operations were included in the second phase.

These joint exercises are to promote joint staff planning, enhance inter-operability and further strengthen maritime cooperation between Pakistan Navy and other international navies operating in the Indian Ocean. The Pakistan Naval units will return in April. —NNI

Copter, frigate deal with China soon

ISLAMABAD, March 31: Pakistan Navy will sign a deal with China to buy frigates and helicopters in June, Naval Chief Admiral Shahid Kareemullah said on Wednesday.

Talking to reporters after inaugurating a hospital, Admiral Kareemullah said the case for acquisition of arms from China was presently pending approval of funds by the finance ministry.

"Hopefully, it would be through in April," said the Naval Chief, adding a formal deal would be signed with China latest by June. Sources said talks for purchasing frigates and helicopters were held with Gen Cao Gangchaun during his five-day visit to Pakistan. The country may get 4-6 frigates from China, the source said.

The admiral said he would be visiting China in May to discuss further avenues of cooperation between the two navies. In reply to a question, he said Pakistan Navy was concentrating on enhancing its indigenous production capability.

He said PN ships would be proceeding to Britain this year to participate in international navy celebrations and next year to the US for the same purpose.

Pakistan may get 3 Chinese frigates by June

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Naval Chief Admiral Shahid Karimullah Wednesday hoped that Pakistan and China would sign a contract deal for three Chinese Frigates by June this year as Islamabad wanted to maintain a minimum deterrence vis-a-vis India.

The Chinese Frigates (F-22 P) will enhance defence capabilities of Pakistan and the Naval Chief reiterated that Pakistan would focus more on transfer of technology through collaborative efforts with other countries.

He said that Pakistan would also try to obtain helicopters from China and things in this regard would come under discussion during his next visit to China going to be held next month. “We are hopeful that Pakistan and China will sign a contract related to Chinese Frigates by June this year,” Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Shahid Karimullah said while talking to journalists soon after inauguration of Dr Aslam Uppal Hospital at Wah Cantt Wednesday. Earlier, during the inaugural ceremony, Chairman POF Maj. Gen. Mohammad Javed, different dignitaries of various embassies, high-level bureaucrats, MNA Ghulam Sarwar Khan and others were present on the occasion.

During his inaugural address, Shahid Karimullah said that no one could serve the nation without having good health. He paid rich tributes to the whole Uppal family especially Dr Imran Uppal for rendering valuable services in the field of health for the people of this locality. While talking to the journalists, the Naval Chief said that Pakistan wanted to make progress in defense advancement with indigenous efforts but without having a vast industrial base, it could not move ahead without making collaboration with other countries.

Citing an example, he said that Pakistan obtained Agosta submarines with the help of France and efforts were under way to make further progress on this front. He said that they would go to the Finance Ministry by end of April for finalizing modalities related to purchase of Chinese Frigate and then Defense Cabinet Committee (DCC) would be consulted on this issue.

“I am going to visit China by May 2004 and we will try to finalize this deal as early as possible, he said and added that it was expected that both countries would sign a contract deal in this regard not latter than June 2004.

To a query about any security concern expressed by French officials, he said that the French authorities had inspected whole arrangements in this regard and they were fully satisfied over the prevailing situation. Without mentioning any specific country, he said that Pakistan wanted to look towards east for enhancing defence cooperation. The electronic equipment of western world is not suitable for this part of the world, he added.

Answering another query about joint naval exercises, he said that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia had recently conducted joint exercises and some joint exercises were on the cards with other countries. We are planning to conduct joint exercises with UAE in near future, he added. He said that Pakistan would send its two ships to UK by next year in order to participate in their celebrations and later two ships would attend celebrations being held in USA in future. He said that President Musharraf was extending full cooperation for improving defence capabilities of Pakistan Navy.

To another query about the balance of power with neighbouring India, he said that there were disparities in this regard and the ratio of balance of power between the two countries stood at 1:8. There is a huge disparity on aviation side and we are making efforts to maintain minimum deterrence with India, he concluded.

Pakistan Navy's clarification

ISLAMABAD (March 25 2004): Pakistan Navy has clarified that no foreign ships have been permitted to patrol anywhere inside the territorial waters of Pakistan.

According to press release issued here on Wednesday, country's maritime interests are safe guarded and will remain the sole responsibility of Pakistan Navy, Maritime Security Agency and other paramilitary forces of Pakistan.

It said that PN ships will also participate in Maritime Coalition Patrol in Arabian Sea which will provide an opportunity to Pakistan Navy to patrol in the international waterways across our seaboard.

Adding, PN will have the advantage of operating in international waters across the north Arabian Sea. It also said that participation of PN in collation patrol was formally processed after inputs from various ministries and was approved by the Government as per the dictates of national interest.

Naval exercise SEASPARK-2004 concludes

Karachi—Pakistan Navy’s major maritime exercise SEASPARK-2004 formally came to an end Wednesday, a statement of ISPR said.

Debrief of the exercise was held at PNS JAUHAR. The main objective of the exercise was to assess the operational preparedness of Pakistan Navy and provide an opportunity to the officers and men to evaluate threat under real war-like conditions and exercise responses accordingly .

Apart from this, the exercise provided an excellent platform for assessment of the operational state of weapons and sensors. The exercise spanned over a period of three weeks and was covered in different Phases. SEASPARK series of exercises are conducted biannually to test the operational preparedness of Pakistan Navy. The Navy being a technology- intensive service, deployment of an array of weapons and platforms are tested under real time situation.

It also brought out pertinent lessons for further analysis. Pakistan Navy is actively pursuing the acquisition of Frigates from China to augment its forces. The hallmark of the exercise was live firing of missiles in the Arabian sea which was attended among others, by Defence Minister Rao Sikandar Iqbal and Finance Minister Shaukat Aziz.—APP

British Naval ship arrives at Karachi

KARACHI (March 16 2004): A British Naval ship HMS Grafton arrived here on Monday morning on a good will cruise.

The officials of Pakistan Navy and port authorities received the ship commanded by Commander Adrian Cassar at Karachi Harbour. The visit is also linked to the visit of First Sea Lord to Pakistan, says an ISPR news release.

Upon arrival at Karachi harbour, Commander Cassar called on Commander Logistics Vice Admiral Farooq Rashid, Commander Pakistan Fleet Rear Admiral M Afzal Thair and Commander Karachi, Rear Admiral Asad Qureshi. He remained with them for quite sometime and exchanged views on matters of mutual interest.

During three days visit, the officers and men of HMS Grafton will visit Mazar-e-Quaid, important naval installations and units and some recreational spots. The visit will pave the way for future co-ordination between the two navies.

US naval commander visits PN Dockyard

KARACHI (March 09 2004): The Commander, US Naval Forces, Central Command and Commander US 5th Fleet, Vice Admiral David C. Nichols, who arrived here on Sunday on a two-day official visit to Pakistan, visited Pakistan Navy Dockyard on Monday morning.

During his visit to PN Dockyard, Vice Admiral Nichols called on Commander Pakistan Fleet Rear Admiral Muhammad Afzal Tahir. He remained with him for some time, and exchanged views on matters of professional interest.

Thereafter, the US Admiral visited some of the units of Pakistan Navy fleet, including a Type-21 frigate and indigenously built Agosta 90-B sub-marine. He was also briefed about capabilities of PN Fleet.

British Naval ship arrives at Karachi

KARACHI (March 16 2004): A British Naval ship HMS Grafton arrived here on Monday morning on a good will cruise.

Royal Navy frigate to join PN exercise

KARACHI (March 18 2004): Pakistan Navy and Royal Navy would hold one-day joint naval exercise on Thursday. This was stated by James Dean, the official spokesman of HMS Grafton at Karachi harbour while talking to newsmen onboard the frigate on Wednesday.

He said, "The frigate HMS Grafton would join a day-long exercise with PNS Tariq on high seas."

For the first time in two years a Royal Navy warship, type-23 frigate, HMS Grafton is conducting a port visit to Karachi.

Its Commanding Officer, Commander Adrian Cassar said, "HMS Grafton is paying a goodwill visit to Pakistan and we have been immensely impressed by the co-operation and friendship extended from the Pakistan Navy. I hope that this visit would help to develop the already close relationship we enjoy with Pakistani Navy and I am looking forward to exercising with PNS Tariq when we return to sea."

He said: "The exercise is part of our ongoing commitment to develop relationships with other navies and re-affirms the status of Pakistan as an important ally of the United Kingdom.

Commander Adrian said that mutual commitment to developing this relationship is shown by the successful visits recently to the United Kingdom by President Musharraf and Foreign Minister Kasuri, and by the visits of British Ministers to Pakistan, most notably by the Foreign Secretary Jack Straw Member Parliament.

The First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sir Alan West is currently visiting Pakistan and hosted a reception on board HMS Grafton on March 16. This is another example of the already close ties between the two countries.

The newsmen faced problems to enter Karachi Port and waited for almost three hours to attend the briefing, as the office of British Deputy High Commissioner had not informed the port authority about this event.

General Cao's visit to expand military ties with Pakistan: China

BEIJING (April 02 2004): The Chinese government spokesman, Kong Quan termed the recent visit of the Defence Minister, General Cao Gangchuan to Pakistan as highly successful and beneficial, expanding their military-to-military contacts and co-operation.

The visit opened new avenues of bilateral co-operation in the defence sector, he said here on Thursday, while talking to newsman.

The two countries enjoyed excellent co-operation in the defense sector, and it is hoped that the bilateral talks, held between the two sides during the visit, would contribute to reinforcing their defense co-operation.

During his visit, General Cao Gangchuan met the high-ranking civil and military leaders, including the President Pervez Musharraf and the Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali. His visit helped promote bilateral relationship and also the co-operation in military and defence fields.

The spokesman said that he was very confident that "this visit was very successful, beneficial and important visit." During his visit, the Chinese defence minister exchanged views with the leaders regional and international situations.

On regional and international issues, the Chinese defence minister emphasised that as a close neighbour of South Asian countries, China hopes for prosperity, joint development and co-operation in this region.

He also expressed to the Pakistani host and later to Indian leaders in New Delhi that China would support as always the peace process between the two countries and would continue to do its part for peace and co-operation in this region as a constructive partner, the spokesman added.

About his visit to India, the spokesman said, this was also beneficial for military-to-military co-operation.

"The purpose of this visit was to implement China's neighbourhood diplomacy of living in partnership and harmony with its neighbours and promote mutual understanding, and co-operation with the countries concerned," he added.

Pakistan Seeking Russian Weapons As Part Of Anti-Terror Combat

MOSCOW --- As part of global anti-terror coalition, Pakistan is seeking Russian weapons for its armed forces and the issue might be raised at their bilateral inter-governmental commission to be set up later this year.

“We would like to receive arms. Probably, this issue will be raised at the bilateral inter-governmental commission to be set up later this year,” Pakistani Ambassador to Russia Iftikhar Murshed was quoted as saying by ‘Russky Kurier’ (Rusian Courier) daily today.

“Bilateral military-technical cooperation acquires a special importance in a joint anti-terror combat,” he said while confirming the killing of at least one Chechen and several ex-Soviet Central Asian nationals in the Pakistan army operation against al-Qaeda and Taliban in South Waziristan.

In the past, Russia has supplied MI-17 dual-purpose helicopters to Pakistan.

However, Moscow has adopted a ‘cautious stance’ on the Pakistani initiatives concerning supply of arms, keeping in view that any such move would evoke a sharp negative reaction from India, the daily pointed out.

Murshed also rubbished claims that Pakistan cracked down on top scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan’s clandestine nuclear black market under external pressure. “Representatives of many countries were involved in illegal market of nuclear technology, it was only Pakistan, which displayed goodwill and decided to launch investigations on its own.” He said Islamabad could sign NPT after reaching a relevant accord with New Delhi, though he added it was desirable that Israel should also be involved.

He said Islamabad was willing to develop friendly ties with New Delhi, similar to it has with Beijing.

Bangladesh to modernise military

Western and Eastern suppliers invited to bid as country aims to refresh armed forces, but budget favours local firms

Bangladesh has opened a competition to transform its air force through the acquisition of up to 16 new fighter and 12 jet trainer aircraft. A number of Western and Eastern manufacturers have been invited to submit information on their fighter and trainer products, but local sources suggest that the country's budgetary constraints will restrict it to acquiring aircraft from a local supplier.

The Chengdu FC-1/JF-17 fighter and Hongdu K-8 Karakorum trainer are considered leading candidates to meet the requirement, with the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex offering these designs. The company plans to begin assembling JF-17s and K-8s for the Pakistan air force and export customers at its Kamra manufacturing plant next year (Flight International, 23-29 March).

Russian manufacturers, including RSK MiG and Sukhoi, may also bid for the fighter requirement, and Korea Aerospace Industries is considering offering its T-50 trainer. Manufacturers expect a contract to be awarded before year-end.

The new fighter and trainer aircraft deals form part of a Bangladeshi military modernisation plan that also calls for the acquisition of additional Mil Mi-17 transport helicopters for the air force, plus maritime patrol aircraft and submarines for the navy.

Bangladesh's current fighter inventory includes Chengdu F-7s, Nanchang A-5s and eight MiG-29s, the latter of which are being sold in an attempt to reduce maintenance costs. Its future trainer will replace Aero Vodochody L-39s and Cessna T-37s, while secondhand aircraft will also be acquired to replace four ageing Cessna 152 ab initio trainers.

Royal Saudi Arabia Air force delegation due in Pakistan on Sunday

ISLAMABAD : A delegation of Royal Saudi Air Force led by Lt General Abdul Aziz Bin Mohamed Henaidy, Commander, Royal Saudi Air Force will be visiting Pakistan from March 28 March to 03 April on the invitation of Pakistan Air Force. During the visit, the delegation will call on President of Pakistan, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Chief of the Air Staff and Secretary Defence.

Lt General Abdul Aziz Bin Mohamed Henaidy was appointed as Commander of the Royal Saudi Air Force on 9th April 1996. In recognition of his meritorious services, Lt General Henaidy has been awarded number of National and International Medals and awards

Saudi Commander visits PAF Academy Risalpur

ISLAMABAD (April 02 2004): A delegation led by Lieutenant General Abdul Aziz Bin Mohamed Henaidy, Commander Royal Saudi Air Force visited Pakistan Air Force Academy, Risalpur on Thursday.

The delegation was received by Air Vice Marshal Abdus Sami Toor, Air Officer Commanding PAF Academy Risalpur, said a PAF press release. It adds that they remained together for some time and discussed matters pertaining to professional training and mutual interest.

The delegation attended a comprehensive briefing about the academy's organisation structure and training. The distinguished guests visited College of Flying Training and College of Aeronautical Engineering where they saw the training facilities, laboratories of aerospace and avionics and met the under training cadets of Royal Saudi Air Force.

A static display of T-37, Super Mushak and Advanced Jet Trainer K-8 was arranged. A thrilling aerobatics display of six T-37, was also performed for visiting dignitaries by Sherdil formation.

PAF's graduation parade held

NOWSHERA, March 27: A graduation parade was held at the Pakistan Air Force Academy in Risalpur here on Saturday, making the culmination of No112 General Duty (Pilot) and No58 Engineering courses.

Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali was the chief guest on this occasion.

President Gen Pervez Musharraf in his message on the graduation parade said: "Recent wars have demonstrated that air power plays a decisive role in any armed conflict. In the nuclear and missile era, air force has gained even greater significance, and rightly so. You have been entrusted with the sacred responsibility of defending the aerial frontiers of your country.

"As the proud defenders of Pakistan's aerial boundaries, it must be your passion to outfight the enemy through better professionalism and superior combat motivation".

He said: "Your ultimate strength lies in your professionalism, devotion to duty and above all, in your unshakable faith in Allah Almighty. These sterling qualities blended with the urge to excel will always enable you to surmount any challenge courageously and gracefully".

In his address to the parade, Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali said: "Challenges lying ahead of you, call for a deep sense of responsibility and high level of proficiency in combat and engineering skills. Remember, in this hi-tech age, warfare is dictated by newly evolving doctrines, new strategies and tactics. we cannot afford to lower our guards, nor can we make any compromise on our state of combat readiness."

He advised the graduating cadets, "keep yourselves abreast of the latest advancements in your respective fields of speciality. You can attain true success, only through consistent hard work and selfless devotion."

Earlier on his arrival at the parade ground Prime Minister of Pakistan Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali was received by Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Kaleem Saadat and was presented general salute by the aviation cadets.

The chief guest reviewed the parade and presented the Quaid-e- Azam Banner to the No. 3 Squadron, the new champion squadron. This was followed by the award of flying badges and branch insignias to the graduating cadets. Senate Chairman Mohammadmian Soomro and attaches of foreign missions in Islamabad also attended the ceremony.

The Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee's Trophy for best performance in General Service Training was won by Aviation Cadet Academy Under Officer Tariq Wahid Malik. The Chief of the Air Staff's Trophy for best performance in Engineering Discipline was awarded to Aviation Cadet Sohail Ahmed, while Aviation Cadet Academy Under Officer Tariq Wahid Malik lifted the Chief of the Air Staff trophy for best performance in flying.

The coveted sword of honour for best all round performance in the college of aeronautical engineering was awarded to Aviation Cadet Sohail Ahmed, while Aviation Cadet Academy Under Officer Tariq Wahid Malik won the sword of honour for best all round performance in the college of flying training.

Besides the parents and relatives of the graduating cadets, a large number of senior civil and military officials were also present on the occasion.

PAF fighter Aircraft crashes

PAF fighter Aircraft crashes, no causalties reported: ISLAMABAD, March 19: A F-7 Fighter Aircraft, of Pakistan Air Force while on a routine operational training mission. According to a PAF Release, the Aircraft, crashed 20 Miles west of Jhang in Punjab province. The crash apparently occurred due to technical malfunction. The Pilot of the aircraft ejected safely. No loss of civilian life or property has been reported. A board of inquiry has been ordered by Air Headquarters to determine the cause of the accident.

PAF plane drops bomb on Musharraf Colony

KARACHI (March 19 2004): A practice bomb fell from a PAF plane on Thursday morning in the populated area of Musharraf Colony.

Police sources said the residents of Musharraf Colony informed that a bomb was dropped from a PAF plane. A police party immediately rushed towards the spot. The police, after locating the bomb, which had not exploded, removed it to the nearby jungle.

According to a PAF spokesman, a PAF fighter plane was on routine flight. Due to technical faults, the practice bomb fell on Musharraf Colony, Maripur. However, no damage or casualty was reported.