COAS seeks new markets for Pakistani arms

Gen Raheel calls for further technological upgrading of POF to optimise output

ISLAMABAD: Army chief General Raheel Sharif has directed the Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF) to explore new markets for its products in an effort to earn the much-needed foreign exchange.  He gave the directives on Tuesday during a visit to the POF Wah where Chairman Lt Gen Omar Mahmood Hayat briefed him on the performance of the industrial complex and its expansion plans.

According to a statement issued by the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), it was Gen Raheel’s second visit to the POF to witness progress on its ‘envisaged modernisation and capacity enhancement’. He also inaugurated a new ammunition plant as part of the expansion plan.



“The POF is the premier defence industry of Pakistan making invaluable contributions to sustain combat worthiness of Pakistan’s armed forces,” the army chief said in his address to the management and staff. The army chief specially appreciated POF’s efforts to meet arms and ammunition requirements for Operations Zarb-e-Azb.

Appreciating the POF management for its dedication, Gen Raheel emphasised the need for further technological upgrading to optimise output in order to make the country self-reliant in the arms and ammunition needs of paramilitary and law enforcement agencies.



Noticing the increased interest of other countries, and the growing export potential due to the newly attained quality standards, Gen Raheel directed the POF to explore new markets and focus on increasing exports to bring the much-needed foreign exchange to the country.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 16^th, 2016.