Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) inducted and commissioned two Island class ships – PMSS Sabqat and PMSS Rafaqat.
With these ships a total of 5 such platforms have been inducted in PMSA fleet during this year. These ships, after serving in the US Coast Guard, have undergone complete a overhaul in the USA prior to being sold to the PMSA.
Induction and commissioning ceremony for the new ships was held at Karachi today.
Vice Admiral Tayyab Ali Dogar was the Chief Guest of the ceremony. Senior military, government officials, US consul general also attended the ceremony. Director General PMSA, Rear Admiral Jamil Akhter Raja, addressed the gathering.
According to PMSA, these ships have been equipped with capabilities that enable them to to effectively undertake patrolling, surveillance, search & rescue and other law enforcement operations. Crew of these ships was trained at US Coast Guard facilities.
DG PMSA, Rear Admiral Jamil Akhter Raja said that in light of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), PMSA’s importance and responsibility has increased manifold. To fulfil these challenges, PMSA is working aggressively on resources and fleet expansion.
These ships are equipped with latest technologies and are capable of working in coastal waters. These platforms are not new but Pakistan only had to pay for their refurbishment cost. In a short time, PMSA has inducted 5 ships in its fleet and many platforms are under construction at Karachi shipyard and in China. The biggest ship Kashmir, weighing 1500 tonnes, is still under construction.
Jamil Akther said that PMSA also suggested that they plan to improve upon the aviation wing. The agency has sent a request to the government for induction of 3 helicopters.
“PMSA has sent a PC one to federal minister for the purchase of 3 helicopters. An international loan has also been arranged to finance this deal. Induction of these helicopters will allow PMSA to do all types of maritime operations.” Jamil Akther added.
He added that two more PMSA stations – Ormara and Keti Bander – are awaiting inauguration and will be operational by next month.
Good Is that Possible K Hum Is Par Ja Kar Selfie Le Le (Government Ko Public Allow KARNA Chahyeh)
Most of land in Karachi is under control or owned by Army and Navy in Karachi….civilian peoples of Karachi are 3rd class citizens and never have or had access to these areas….I was grown and raised in Karachi but never allowed to visit these places….
Apni Army Apne He Logo Ko Allow Nahi Karti