The induction ceremony of the 5^th ATR of the Pakistan Navy was held at Naval Aviation Base PNS Mehran, Karachi. CNS, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, graced the occasion as Chief Guest.
The newly inducted ATR aircraft, acquired from Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), is equipped with day and night flying capability to undertake 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. Being a commercial aircraft, it has very low operating costs as compared to tailor-made military aircraft. This is the 5^th aircraft that has been acquired for this purpose.

Speaking on the occasion, the CNS highlighted the importance of the evolving geo-strategic environment in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). It emphasized the need to have a potent naval force in order to counter emerging challenges. He underlined the significance of strong maritime defense for Pakistan and reiterated that the induction of modern aircraft will enhance the Pakistan Navy’s capability of safeguarding our maritime frontiers.
Earlier, during his welcome address, Commander Pakistan Fleet, Vice Admiral Muhammad Faisal Abbasi highlighted that induction of ATR will ensure sustained operations from the western seaboard through regular logistics and personnel movements.
Later, the CNS handed over ATR documents to the Commander of the Pakistan Fleet. The ceremony was attended by Flag Officers, Ex Aviators of the Pakistan Navy, and representatives of PIA.