Rawalpindi, The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of Pakistan, General Syed Asim Munir, emphasized the importance of modernizing the nation’s armed forces during his visit to witness Exercise Al-Bayza-III, 2024 at Sonmiani. He stressed the need for updating defence systems to adequately respond to potential threats to Pakistan.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, General Munir observed integrated fire and battle maneuvers involving various tiers of Army Air Defence systems. These included High to Medium Air Defence Weapons System (HIMADS), Low to Medium Air Defence System (LOMAD), Short Range Air Defence system (SHORADs), and Extended Short Range Air Defence system (ESHORADs).

A significant highlight of the exercise was the maiden firing of the HIMAD system, which successfully engaged targets at maximum ranges. This demonstration marks a major milestone in enhancing the air defence capabilities of the country’s aerial borders. General Munir expressed his high appreciation for the precision and operational readiness demonstrated by the Corps of Army Air Defence.

The exercise was also attended by the Corps Commander Karachi, Commander Army Air Defence, Inspector General Training and Evaluation, and Inspector General Arms.

In an earlier event, General Munir visited the Army Air Defence Center, where he paid tribute to the martyrs of the Armed Forces by laying a floral wreath at Yadgar e Shuhada. Additionally, he performed the ceremonial duty of installing Lieutenant General Muhammad Zafar Iqbal as the Colonel Commandant of the Army Air Defence Corps.

The COAS’s visit and the successful execution of Exercise Al-Bayza-III underscore Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining a robust and modern defense infrastructure, ready to counter any challenges to national security.