Pakistan Air Force achieved a major landmark in its Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEWC) Programme with the roll out of its first aircraft - SAAB 2000 AEWC - at a ceremony held at the Saab facility in Sweden. Air Chief Marshal Tanvir Mahmood Ahmed, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force was the chief guest on the occasion.
On arrival the Air Chief was received by Ake Svensson, CEO of Saab. The rolling out of the aircraft would pave way for the installation of surveillance and airborne warning gadgetry and equipment. This work would soon be completed for its onward induction in PAF fleet.
Speaking on the occasion Air Chief Marshal Tanvir Mahmood said the acquisition of airborne early warning capability by PAF would greatly enhance its defensive capability and was an essential part of its modernisation efforts. He said the achievement of AEW & C capability will provide a much needed boost to Pakistan's security needs.
The ceremony is considered an important milestone, which ensures timely procurement of state-of-the-art technology of ERIEYE radar onboard Saab 2000 aircraft to PAF. Also present on the occasion was Pakistan's ambassador to Sweden, Shaheen Gilani and other officials.