KARACHI: The induction ceremony of the 5th ATR (Aerei da Trasporto Regionale) aircraft of the Pakistan Navy took place at Naval Aviation Base PNS Mehran in Karachi. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf presided over the ceremony.
The newly-inducted ATR aircraft, acquired from Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), is equipped with day and night flying capabilities, enabling it to perform ferry, logistics support, Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC), General Evacuation (GENEVAC), and training missions.
Pakistan Navy is in the process of acquiring ATR aircraft from various sources and is modernizing them to carry out maritime reconnaissance and antisubmarine warfare missions at sea.
Due to its commercial origin, the ATR aircraft has a significantly lower operating cost compared to tailor-made military aircraft. This marks the fifth ATR aircraft acquired for naval purposes.
During the ceremony, the Chief of the Naval Staff emphasized the evolving geo-strategic environment in the Indian Ocean Region and stressed the importance of maintaining a potent naval force to counter emerging challenges.
He highlighted the significance of a strong maritime defense for Pakistan and stated that the induction of modern aircraft would enhance the Pakistan Navy’s capability to safeguard maritime frontiers.
Vice Admiral Muhammad Faisal Abbasi, Commander Pakistan Fleet, discussed how the induction of ATR aircraft would ensure sustained operations from the western seaboard through regular logistics and personnel movements.
The Chief of the Naval Staff handed over ATR documents to the Commander Pakistan Fleet during the event. The ceremony was attended by Flag Officers, former aviators of the Pakistan Navy, and representatives of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).
