Pakistan Navy Fleet Annual Efficiency Competition Parade and Award Ceremony was held at PN Dockyard on Wednesday.
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah graced the occasion as the chief guest, said a statement issued by the ISPR.
Addressing the parade, the chief of the Naval Staff emphasised that an efficient and strong navy is vital for the protection of Pakistan Maritime interests.
He expressed his complete satisfaction over the professional competence and performance of Pakistan Navy Fleet.
He said that during last year, Pakistan Navy Fleet participated in various maritime exercises and live weapon firings.
Realising the challenges faced to ensure the security of Gwadar Port, the hub of CPEC project, the naval chief also lauded the raising of a dedicated Task Force 88 for security purposes.
He reaffirmed that the navy will continue to discharge its responsibilities and contribute effectively in ensuring the security of maritime boundaries of Pakistan.
The naval chief further said that acquisition of Hangor class submarines would greatly add to the operational capability of the navy, and added that efforts are in hand to acquire modern warships.
The naval chief said that besides the acquisition of modern weapon systems, we should also keep in mind that it is the rigorous training and untiring efforts which can provide us an edge over the enemy.
Commander Pakistan Fleet, Vice Admiral Arifullah Hussaini, while presenting an account of the operational achievements of Pakistan Navy Fleet during the year 2016, said that besides successful conduct of major maritime exercises and other operational activities, fleet units actively participated in the various multinational exercises and operational deployments.
The commander also highlighted the successful surface to surface anti-ship missile firing as a hallmark of PN fleet readiness.
Later, the chief guest distributed prizes among units adjudged best during the year 2016.
PNS TIPPU SULTAN, PNS ASLAT, PNS NASR, PNS MADADGAR, PNS MUHAFIZ, PNS AZMAT, PNS ZARRAR, PN Submarine KHALID, 333 Aviation SQN, Survey and Re-build DEPT GROUP and Survey Vessel BEHR PAIMA won efficiency shields for their respective squadrons.
