Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz on Sunday said the government was according top priority to country's air defence and would provide all necessary resources to boost its capabilities.
"We would maintain the minimum credible deterrence, but believe that peace can only be attained through strength," he said following a detailed briefing here at the PAF Command Operations Centre. He said Pakistan is a peaceful country and wishes to live with peace with all its neighbours.
He, however, said: "Peace can only be achieved through strength and the government is doing all to further- strengthen its defence to achieve peace." The prime minister, who visited the PAF Command Operations Centre to get the latest update on the Exercise Highmark-2005, said the government was allocating all resources for the up-gradation of the PAF, and called for inducting more high-tech equipment to enhance its punch.
He said keeping in view the changing global realities, it was vital that both the training and latest weapon systems were employed to defend the country's aerial frontiers.
Shaukat Aziz said the induction of the air-borne radar system would increase the response time and ability of Pakistan's armed forces, allowing it to detect threats in advance and initiate appropriate tactical actions to neutralise it.
He said the PAF was inducting latest aircraft, including the F-16s and the JF-17 'Thunder' to enhance its firepower and defensive and offensive capabilities.
He stressed the need for self-reliance keeping in view the geo-political realities, saying: "Pakistan will never compromise on its national interests and integrity."
The prime minister said the exercise was an important ingredient for enhancing the overall preparedness level of the Pakistan Air Force, adding it would help improve the strategy, techniques and capabilities of the PAF and has done a marvellous job.
He said the exercise would give confidence to the PAF besides increasing co-operation and co-ordination with the Pakistan Army and Pakistan Navy.
He also noted the role of Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, Kamra, which was playing a critical role in not only keeping the Air Force fully operational but providing an important aviation industrial base of the country. He said the induction of the JF-17 Thunder aircraft would enhance the ability of the PAF and would serve as its backbone.
The prime minister commended the officers and men of the PAF for showing exemplary professionalism. He also spoke high of the PAF leadership for planning such a high-intensity exercise.
Talking to APP, Shaukat Aziz said latest equipment was being inducted into the Air Force, including latest fighter aircraft air-borne and ground radars and electronic warfare equipment to make the PAF more potent. "The nation is proud of Pakistan Air Force and appreciate its performance and role in defending country's aerial frontiers," he said.