RIBAT 2018: PAF joins Pakistan Navy for operational exercise in Arabian Sea

KARACHI - Pakistan Navy’s operational exercise Ribat-2018 commenced with opening brief held at Karachi, according to a press release on Saturday.

The RIBAT series of exercises are focused on validating PN war-fighting concepts under evolving multi-faceted threats ranging from conventional to sub-conventional warfare. The exercise would also encompass joint operations of PN with PAF at extended ranges into the Arabian Sea.

Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Kaleem Shaukat graced the occasion as the chief guest, the Navy said in a statement.

In his address, the Vice Chief of Naval Staff emphasised on the combat readiness of Pakistan Navy and that joint operational exercises are the essence of modern warfare which affords real-time training to undertake defence of the motherland against any aggression.

He urged all the participants not to be deterred by the numerical superiority or greater wherewithal of the enemy “as Islamic history is full of incidences of smaller Muslim forces defeating larger enemies through their superior strategy, faith in ALLAH (SWT) and own just cause”.

The naval chief expressed hope that the exercise will prove to be professionally rewarding for both the combat and support elements of PN and PAF.

Besides operational units of Fleet Command, units from Coastal and Logistics Commands are also taking part in the exercise. Special emphasis will be laid in the exercise to enhance interoperability between naval and air assets and validation of war plans.

The exercise will continue till March 6 in the North Arabian Sea and will culminate with a fire power demonstration by combat units of Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Air Force.