Pak-US joint navy exercises continue

KARACHI: The 15-day Pakistan-American Joint Naval Exercises "Inspired Union-2006," commenced on September 4, are underway in the North Arabian Sea.

Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, General Ehsan- ul- Haq along with, American Ambassador Ryan C. Croker witnessed the exercises on Friday at a combat support oil carrier of Pakistan Navy, "PNS Moawin."

Speaking on the occasion, General Ehsan said these exercises convey a strong message about our commitment to work with international community to maintain peace and stability in the region.

He said it is pleasant to witness the joint exercises of Pak-US Naval forces as both the forces are working in close coordination.

Gen. Ehsan was of the view that the government is fully cognizant of the requirements of Navy and role the force has to play in the regional maritime scenario.

He further said through "Inspired Union" both the forces would be able to learn from mutual experiences, adding, the same are depiction of high standard of professionalism, providing opportunities for training and to understand the standard operating procedures.

Commenting on the occasion, the US Ambassador said the exercises showed the extent of relations between the two countries, which have grown stronger and Pakistan's role as a major regional power in war against terrorism.

He said Pakistan Navy has the honour to lead the CTF 150 and it is indeed proud to be partners to bring stability and peace in the region. It is nice to be on board ship PNS Moawin; the ship which visited New York in the year 2005 and the relationship between the two countries is getting stronger in both the civil and military sector, he added.

Besides, two United States (US) ships, "USS Nicholas" and "USS McFaul" and one US nuclear Submarine "USS Albuquerque," the Pakistani ships PNS Babar and PNS Shahjahan and PN Submarine Saad and two MSA corvettes also participated in the exercises. It may be noted here that this is the first time that any US Nuclear submarine has participated in any joint-naval exercise.

In a demonstration the Atlantic aircraft of PN dropped a live depth charge, which exploded in the sea with a powerful bang. Later, a Seaking helicopter dropped Special Services Group (SSG) personnel on a type-21 ship.

A replenishment exercise was also carried out in which Pakistani and US Naval ships performed refuelling with PNS Moawin while operating at high speed.