Pakistan Navy is in the process of acquiring ATR aircraft from various sources and is modernising them to carryout maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare missions at sea. 

In this regard, an induction ceremony of 5th ATR of Pakistan Navy was held at Naval Aviation Base PNS Mehran, Karachi.

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf graced the occasion as Chief Guest.

The newly inducted ATR aircraft, acquired from PIA, is equipped with day and night flying capability to undertake ferry, logistics support, Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC), General Evacuation (GENEVAC) and training missions.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief of the Naval Staff highlighted the importance of evolving geo-strategic environment in the Indian Ocean Region and emphasized the need to have a potent naval force in order to counter emerging challenges.