Filling the ‘gap’: Pakistan confirms arms import from America

Nearly $1b defence deal will also help to fight terrorism in the country


Our Correspondent April 10, 2015
PHOTO: AFP

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has confirmed that it is planning to procure defence hardware worth nearly $1 billion from the United States in order meet ‘critical gaps’ in its defence capabilities, as well as to deal with the terror threat.

Speaking at her weekly news briefing in the capital on Thursday, foreign ministry spokesperson Tasnim Aslam pointed out that Pakistan has longstanding defence cooperation with the United States.

Replying to a question, the spokesperson said the proposed equipment would not only boost the country’s defence capabilities but also help in its counter-terrorism campaign.

On Monday, the US State Department approved Islamabad’s request to purchase US-made attack helicopters, missiles and other equipment valued at almost $1 billion, aimed at fighting insurgent’s in the country.

The potential deal with Pakistan also could include target sight systems, mission computers, global positioning navigation systems, radar warning receivers and other gear. The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said the deal would further provide Pakistan “with military capabilities in support of its counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations”.

“We welcome the notification by the State Department. This is recognition of Pakistan’s needs in counter-terrorism operations,” Tasnim remarked.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 10th, 2015. 

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