Defence News

(PakistaniDefence.com)

May 2001

Indian Jet crashes into safari park, pilot dies

CHENNAI May3,2001 : An Indian Air Force trainer jet crashed into a lion safari park in southern India on Thursday, killing the pilot, an air force official said.

None of the eight lions in the safari park were hurt, zoo officials said.

The single-engine Kiran trainer jet was on a routine flight when it crashed into the 28-hectare (70-acre) safari park in a remote corner of the sprawling zoo in Vandalur, 20 km (12 miles) south of the Tamil Nadu capital, said the reports.

Chief Executive Gen Pervez Musharraf's recent visit to Vietnam. Has opened new dimensions between two countries in the field of defense cooperation. As there were two agreements that were signed for increased defense cooperation between the two countries. Although the exact details of the agreements are unknown but it is assumed that Pakistan will supply Vietnam technical assistance to there defense industry. Gen Musharraf is accompanied by high level defense & economical delegation.

Pakistani Forgien Office on 2nd May, Wednesday denied India had given advance information about its military exercise scheduled to begin in Rajasthan border Pakistan foreign office in a statement here said Islamabad has not received any "proper" notice from India about the exercises by a corps-level force of the Indian Army.

Official said the statement by an Indian defense ministry on April 30 that India had given advance notice to Pakistan of its plans to hold the corps-level exercise was not correct. 

Indian starts its war games 150km away from Pak border 

(May 6th, 2001) India on Saturday began its largest military maneuvers in 13 years and said that the one of the main objectives of the exercise along Pakistan's border would be to train troops in tactical measures in a nuclear conflict. As Pakistan's top news paper "The News" reports

"The exercises have started. In the initial stages, reconnaissance will take place during which the enemy will be identified," Colonel Shruti Kant, a spokesman for the Indian army said. "The final assault will take place on May 10," he added.

More than 60,000 troops, heavy Armour such as Russian built T-72 tanks and around 100 transport and combat aircraft are involved in the mammoth five-day war games in the Bikaner sector of the northern desert state of Rajasthan.

The Indian Air Force, which held its own exercises involving more than 100 combat jets last year, will launch ground attacks during the exercise, code-named "Complete Victory". The maneuvers will end with the firing of high-caliber live ammunition rockets and other battlefield missiles in India's nuclear weapons test zone of Pokhran in Rajasthan, sources said.

New Delhi has said it had given advance notice to Islamabad of its corps-level -- about 60,000 men -- exercises to avoid military tensions with its neighbor. However, Pakistan on Wednesday said India's claims that it had given advance information of the exercise was "not correct".

According to Pakistan, India had earlier told Pakistan that it would conduct two separate division-size -- roughly 20,000 men -- exercises in mid-May in Bikaner and Hoshiarpur areas and would remain 90 to 150 kilometers (56-93 miles) from Pakistan's border. This exercise was to take place in mid-May, whereas the exercise announced on Monday would happen in early May, the Pakistani government said.

Under a 1991 agreement between the two countries, each side is required to give advance notice to the other of all exercises at corps level within a distance of 75 kilometers from the border.

Despite the protests, witnesses reported that columns of Armour had rolled into the hot deserts of Rajasthan for the May 5-10 event. The exercises are a result of a decision taken during a military commanders' conference held in New Delhi in April.

The maneuvers aim to "evaluate concepts and practice battle procedures during offensive and defensive operations on the future battlefield, with a nuclear backdrop," the defense ministry has said.

"The operation aims to enhance the army's operational preparedness through the conduct of a number of tactical exercises with troops and live firing under simulated battle conditions. Drills and procedures to meet challenges of a nuclear, chemical or biological strike will be also practiced," it added.

"Complete Victory" will be on the same scale as India's "Brass Tacks" war games in Rajasthan in 1987 that brought India and Pakistan close to actual war. India's 1.3-million army has been devising ways to develop a "leaner and meaner" military with the capability of withstanding a first nuclear strike in battlefield conditions.

(Published in "The News")

Another Indian MiG-21 jet crashes in Rajasthan exercise

NEW DELHI: An Indian air force MiG-21 fighter crashed Sunday during a training exercise in northwestern Rajasthan state, killing the pilot, a report said

Pakistan To buy more arms from Ukraine 

A top level Pakistani delegation is in Ukraine to discuss arms deal with Ukraine. As the exact detail of the talks are unknown, but it has been suggested by top military analysts that Pakistan may go for destroyers and other ships for its navy. Pakistan has also showed its interest in buying more tanks from Ukraine as in past Pakistan had already bought 320 highly advanced T-80UD tanks.

Talks are underway between Pakistani and Chinese officials for the second unit of Chashma nuclear power plant. This was discussed in the tour of Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission Chairman's recent visit to China that was six days ago, in which he held talks with his Chinese counterpart. Final agreement will be authorized in this months visit of Chinese present's visit to Pakistan. The construction of second unit is also stated in original agreement of Chashma power plant. Pakistan and China has recently signed an MoU in this regard too. This unit will also be under safety check of International Atomic Energy Commission.

Super Mushshak  handed over to PAF 

(May 16, 2001) Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) handed over the first Super Mushshak advanced trainer jet to PakistanAir Force today. The handing over cerimoney was held Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Kamra.The aircraft is a modified version of Mushshak aircraft (MFI-17) and is another step towards self-reliance and indigenous production. The aircraft is designed to fulfil the training requirements of the PAF more efficiently and economically.

One of Pakistan's leading news paper reports that "the aircraft had been on trial for about two years and on the basis of its excellent performance during trial period, it has been included in the trainer fleet of the PAF. Air Commodore Sohail Sadiq, Managing Director Aircraft Manufacturing Factory, handed over the Super Mushshak to Deputy Chief of Air Staff (Engg) Air Vice Marshal Javed Zafar Pasha". The aircraft during IDEAS- 2000 impressed the foreign dignitaries with its aerobatics held at Sonmiani near Karachi.

Pakistan acquires latest radar technology from Italy

One Of Pakistan's Leading News Papers reports that Pakistan and Italy are going to roll-out the first Grifo airborne radar, a co-production of "Pulse Doppler Frequency Agility Radar" technology partly manufactured at the Avionics and Radar Factory of Kamra Aeronautical Complex.

Pakistan has been looking for alternate means of technology in order to upgrade its air defence system, especially after the imposition of sanctions on military spares. The Grifo airborne radar will not only equip Chinese made F-7P aircraft, but will also enable Mirage fighters of Pakistan Air Force to outmatch India's best fighter bombers.

According to well-placed sources of the Defence Ministry, Grifo radars will replace UK made GEC-Marconi Ranging Radars, which had become obsolete. The Grifo Radars, technically called "Pulse Doppler Frequency Agility Radars", have the ability to track and scan, look up and look down at the enemy aircraft, a feature which GEC-Marconi Ranging Radars didn't have.

The Secretary General of the Ministry of Defence and Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Italian Government is visiting Pakistan in the first week of June to commission Grifo Radar manufacturing facility in Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, Kamra and to attend a ceremony for the formal induction of Grifo Radar into PAF fleet.

Previously the Avionics and Radar Factory, Kamra was only performing repairs and maintenance work for ground-based radars in the PAF inventory. But under the contract for supply of Radar for the Chinese F-7P fleet, a new facility with hi-tech equipment has been erected under the Italian supervision. Pakistan is also going to install Grifo Radars on 50 Mirages it had bought from Australia for $30 million.

The Grifo Radars will also be installed in 46 F-7PG aircraft, which Pakistan is in the process of purchasing from China. Both the countries have already signed MoU for the deal. But Italian company, Friar, which is the original manufacturer of Grifo Radars is also a serious contender for the supply of their upgraded version for the 46 Chinese aircraft. Friar is also in the run for the supply of radars for Super-7 program. With the installation of Grifo Radars, the fighter bombers including Mirage and F-7P fleets will acquire forward looking capability.

Pakistan And China To Enhance Defense Ties

Islamabad: The recent visit by Chinese present has resulted very fruitful for both sides. Both sides have agreed to increase the ties between in all fields including defense. There were some unconfirmed reports by military circles that Pakistan and China has signed a confidential agreement in regards to in time completion of FC-1 (formally known as Super-7) advanced tactical aircraft project. The exact details are kept classified. China has also agreed to provide Pakistan with more defense equipment and transfer of technology specially for Pakistan Navy. 

This visit by Chinese president is viewed by international circles as very important. As China has extended its hand further towards Pakistan in nuclear cooperation. As there was agreement signed for the second unit of Chashma nuclear power plant. This project will be completed by both Pakistani and Chinese experts. 

This visit caused another blow to India who claimed that China has backed off from its stand on Kashmir when Chinese President reiterated there support for Pakistan's stand on Kashmir issue. He also stated that China will never extend its relations with India on cost of Pakistan. This visit has came at that time when India has announced its support for American Missile Defense Program, which china and Russia are very strongly against.    

Lt Gen Usmani takes over as deputy army chief

 Lt. Gen. Muzaffar Hussain Usmani on Thursday assumed the charge of Deputy Chief of Army Staff (DCOAS) after leaving the charge of Commander 5-Corps. Lt. Gen. Usmani is the senior most 3-star general. He called on Chief Executive General Pervez Musharraf and discussed matters pertaining to this new appointment. General Musahrraf also congratulated Usmani on his new appointment. The chief executive also wished him success in his future responsibilities.

Usmani was appointed DCOAS on May 1st when the government announced reshuffle of several senior military officers. Usmani, who is the third DCOAS since 1978, held meetings with Chief of General Staff Lt. Gen. Muhammad Yousaf Khan and other Principal Staff Officers.

With Lt. Gen. Usmani assuming his new responsibilities, the reshuffle announced early May has almost been completed with Lt. Gen. Ehsanul Haq as Commander 11-Corps, Lt. Gen. Ghulam Mustafa as Commander I-Corps, Lt. Gen. Tariq Waseem Ghazi as Commander 5-Corps. Lt. Gen. Imtiaz Shaheen has already assumed the charge as Chief of Logistics Staff, Lt. Gen. Tauqir Zia as Inspector-General Training and Evaluation, and Lt. Gen. S. P. Shahid as Director-General Joint Staff Headquarters.

The appointment of DCOAS has generated a lot of discussion everywhere with people drawing their own conclusions on its implications. There are mixed reactions from the people, though the military men received the announcement of Lt. Gen. Muzaffar Usmani as they were well aware of it.

"The decision to appoint Lt. Gen. Usmani as DCOAS was taken at least 3 months back but its announcement was delayed purely for military reasons," a senior official told The News. "There is nothing to be surprised about this development," he added.

Pakistan reiterates support for ABM treaty

Pakistan's Top news paper The News reports Foreign Minister Abdul Sattar has reiterated Pakistan's support for 1972 Anti-Ballistic Missile (ABM) Treaty and said it is principally opposed to the development of anti-missile systems that could trigger new arms race.

He stated this while speaking at a PTV programme 'Face the Nation' telecast late on Thursday. "Our principled position is that the status quo that has been existing for the past 29 years should be maintained," he was responding to a question that whether Pakistan would support any Chinese move in response to US proposed National Missile System (NMD).

Sattar described the question as "speculative" because Beijing has not yet spelt out its position on NMD. The Foreign Minister said ABM treaty signed by the United States and erstwhile Soviet Union had led to considerable arms reduction in the world."Now all of a sudden a debate has erupted that programmes are being made to develop such systems. No principled nation can support any move that triggers arms race," he said.

He also referred to the statement of Chief Executive General Pervez Musharraf that Pakistan was opposed to any action that "re-initiates nuclear and missile race." "Our position is based on principle. We are of the view that the production of anti-missile systems can lead to initiation of arms race."

Responding to a question, he strongly dispelled the impression that Pakistan had been following pro-US foreign policy. He said the Government of Pakistan, its Foreign Office and diplomats were expected to formulate and follow a policy fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Pakistan.

"It is surprising that in 2001, we still think that we are running foreign policy on the dictates of the United States," he said. On the contrary, he cited the "discriminatory" sanctions imposed by Washington against Pakistan for the past 11 years. On Pakistan's ties with China, the Foreign Minister said,"our cooperation and relationship is not directed against any other country."

"We have forged this relationship for our mutual benefit and we are doing nothing against anyone." He said adding, "there is no cause of worry for other countries about growing Sino-Pak ties. There is no justification for this wrong impression and if someone wants to punish us for this than it is free to do that."

SANA adds: Foreign Minister Abdul Sattar said fragile economic situation and incidents of terrorism in the country are affecting Pakistan's image in the outside world. He said the fragile economic situation is affecting the country's status abroad. The government has also to deal with the issue of terrorism in the country, as it is undermining the image of Pakistan in the world, he added.

Chinese naval ships arrive

KARACHI, May 20: Two Chinese naval ships with Rear Admiral Zhang Yan, deputy commander of North Sea Fleet China, on board, arrived here on Sunday in connection with the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Pakistan-China relations. Pakistan Navy accorded a warm welcome to the guests. Two PN Destroyers received Chinese ships Harbin and Taicang in the Pakistani waters and escorted them to port.

Chinese naval ships were berthed at the East Wharf jetties. In addition to school and college students, a large number of PN officers and sailors were present.

The Commander of Pakistan Fleet, Rear Admiral Shahid Karimullah, boarded the Chinese ship where he was presented guard of honour. He inspected the guard and then met Rear Admiral Zhang and presented him bouquets.

Rear Admiral Zhang thanked the PN and said that both the countries had a time tested relationship and the navies of two countries were enjoying an ideal understanding and co-operation.

Rear Admiral Zhang Yan visited the headquarters of Commander Pakistan Fleet, Commander Karachi and Commander Logistics. Rear Admiral Zhang attended a dinner at the Pakistan Maritime Museum.-APP

Chinese Admiral lauds Pakistan Foreign Policy

(Dawn Reports) May 21: Rear Admiral Zhang Yan, Deputy Commander, North Sea Fleet, China, has said that Pakistan has maintained peace and stability in South Asia by means of its peaceful, independent and non-aligned foreign policy. He was addressing a ceremonial parade held at the Pakistan Navy dockyard in connection with the 50th anniversary of Pakistan-China diplomatic relations.

Rear Admiral Zhang said Pakistan was a great nation. The people of Pakistan were very hard-working and courageous, he said and added that the two countries were close neighboursm, shared common waters and mountains and their friendship enjoyed a long history and was time-tested.

The Chinese rear admiral said that they had come a long way to this beautiful city of Karachi and were impressed by the warm welcome accorded to them by the Pakistan Navy. He said he was confident that the visit would strengthen the relations between the navies of the two countries and open a new chapter in the Pakistan-China friendship.

Rear Admiral Zhang wished prosperity and further development for Pakistan and its people. Earlier, on his arrival at the venue, he was presented a guard of honour. He inspected the guard and appreciated its turnout. Flags of the two countries were also hoisted and national anthems of Pakistan and China were played by Pakistan Navy and PLA (Navy) bands.

In his welcome address, Rear Admiral Shahid Karimullah, Commander of Pakistan Fleet, said that Pakistan-China relations represented a model for peaceful, co-operative and friendly relations between countries with different political and social systems and cultural backgrounds. "Our friendship has stood the test of time under all circumstances, whether it be war or peace, economic or political difficulties or even international pressure. It has never wavered", he added.

Rear Admiral Karimullah said: "Since the induction of PNS Nasr , the fleet tanker from China, our mutual relations had improved at a steady pace. Development of Jalalat- type missile boats, equipped with state-of-the art anti- ship missile, acquisition and successful testing of surface-to-air missile system on board Type-21 destroyers are the hallmark of our developing naval relations", he added.-APP

Pakistan and Azerbaijan to increase Defense cooperation

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Azerbaijan Thursday May 24, 2001 agreed to promote military and defense cooperation, a foreign ministry statement said.

"The cooperation would include exchange of visits between the armed forces of the two countries" as well as cooperation in medical, logistics and other military fields, it said.

The agreement followed talks between visiting Azerbaijan Defense Minister Colonel General Safar Abiyev and Pakistan Foreign Minister Abdul Sattar.

According to sources Pakistan will help Azerbaijan to train and improve there defense abilities. Sources also quote that Azerbaijan is also interested in bug Pakistani military equipment. 

India accuses Pakistan of destroying border fence posts

JAMMU: India accused that Pakistani border guards of firing mortar bombs that damaged more than 25 fence posts that Indian authorities put up to mark their border in the northern state of Jammu and Kashmir, Indian police said on Sunday.

The firing by Pakistan Rangers took place on Saturday evening near Ramgarh in the Samba sector, 45 km south of held Jammu,

India recently announced it would fence the 210-kilometre long porous border with Pakistan in the sector despite strong protests from Pakistani authorities. As it was a direct violation of international Laws by India, because of the areas deputed status.

Indian authorities said fencing work along the border started two months ago they claim to prevent the illegal movement of people and goods between the two countries. Pakistan has announced that it will take all steps necessary to stop this.