KARACHI: Pakistan Navy on Wednesday inducted the first squadron of
drones into its fleet. The drones are equipped with sensors and will be
used in coastal areas.
Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Noman
Bashir addressing the ceremony held here at PN Aviation Base, Mehran
said the drones would increase the operational capabilities of the
Navy.
The Chief of the Naval Staff while addressing the
audience, congratulated all those who were involved in the UQAB-II
programme and expressed satisfaction on induction of UAVs.
He
said that prevailing maritime environment poses multifarious challenges
to navies across the globe. In addition to traditional roles, navies
are now increasingly confronted with emerging challenge of deterring
maritime terrorism. Owing to their small size, ease of operation and
maintenance versatility in employment and low risk of loss, UAVs today
are regarded as force multipliers and are increasingly being used by
combat forces worldwide.
The Chief of the Naval Staff
reiterated that UAVs induction is a manifestation of PN’s commitment
and resolve towards self reliance and indigenization. Cognizant of the
heightened surveillance measures at all times, the induction of UQAB-II
UAVs will provide essential experience to Pakistan Navy and necessary
impetus to utilize this particular segment of warfare to the best use
of naval objectives.
According to a Naval spokesman the
indigenously developed UAVs are equipped with state of the art
equipment and sensors and can successfully be employed in support of
Maritime Interdiction Operation (MIO) in the coastal areas.
The induction of UAVs in Pakistan Navy will enhance the operational capabilities of PN. Online
