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On the occasion of the Pakistan Naval Defence Show '99 beginning February 22 in Karachi, NAVAL FORCES wanted to look more closely at the situation of the Pakistan Navy and asked Admiral Fasih Bokhari NI (M), S. Bt., Chief of Naval Staff, about his views on a variety of aspects. Understandably, in view of last year's nuclear showdown between India and Pakistan, the interview strongly reflects the Pakistani point of view in this matter.
NAFO: Could you briefly present the main task and operational missions of the Pakistan Navy in the overall/framework of the defence and security policy of your country? How do you assess the general strategic and naval/maritime situation in the waters that fall within your areas of responsibility and interest?
Bokhari: The primary mission of the Pakistan Navy is the seaward defence of Pakistan and the protection of Pakistan's maritime interests, including keeping the sea lines of communication open. Secondary missions comprise surveillance, hydrographic surveys, disaster relief, SAR, Anti Narcotic Missions, aid to civil power, naval diplomacy and maritime cooperation with regional and extra-regional navies.
The main area of interest for the Pakistan Navy is the Northern Indian Ocean (Arabian Sea). The prevailing strategic situation in this area is tense because India, through its vastly growing Navy, fully supported by Russia, is trying to dominate the littoral states and influence trade in this region. While the Pakistan Navy, despite resource constraints, is trying to counter India's hegemonic designs, support free flow of trade in the area, and protect our maritime interests.
NAFO: Do you expect any changes to be introduced, as regards both the regional naval bases in general and the roles and missions of the Pakistan Navy in particular, as a result of India and Pakistan moving towards a nuclear power status?
Bohkari: India's unquenchable thirst for power to dominate smaller countries of the region led it to test nuclear weapons in May 1998. It has already developed delivery systems in the form of long-range missiles. These systems are constantly being improved and new submarine-launched missiles are being developed by India. This upset in the balance of power in the region urgently need to be corrected. However, influential nations did not seriously restrain India from pursuing its nuclear policy. As a...