Pak, US navies to conduct joint wargames from 22
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
Islamabad, June 20, IRNA
Pakistan-US
Pakistan and US navies will conduct a joint exercise in the North Arabian Sea from June 22, it was announced here on Monday by US and Pakistani naval officials.
Commodore Hank Miranda of US Navy and Commodore Azhar Hayat of Pakistan Navy gave details of the exercise to the media men at a press conference on board USS Kauffman.
The exercise which will last for 10 days has been named Inspired Union 2005, a Pakistan Navy statement said.
"It is a combination of Inspired Siren and Inspired Response two bilateral exercises conducted annually between US and Pakistan Navy forces. The exercise focuses on training in anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, mine counter measures, air defense, electronic warfare, replenishment at seas and command and control."
"Inspired Union would provide an opportunity to US and Pakistan Navies to refine interoperability and tactical proficiency between coalition and regional forces which may be used as part of regional maritime security operations. This would also wet the skills to deter terrorists acts using the maritime environment," it added.
Responding to a question Captain Miranda said that two US Navy frigates, a submarine and several air assets will participate in the exercise in addition to Pakistan Navy ships, submarines, Special Services Unit and aircraft.
To another query, he responded that such exercises have also been conducted in past in blue waters.
"The exercise would prove to be beneficial for both the navies and would provide a wonderful platform to learn from each other's experiences," he added.
The press conference was also attended by the commanding officers of participating Pakistan and US Navy ships.
"We have started the planning today, the ships will be sailed tomorrow and the exercises will start on Wednesday," a Pakistan Navy officer said.
TK/TSH/2322/1412
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