WAH: Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir visited the Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF) in Wah, where he witnessed the testing and trials of weapons and ammunition designed and manufactured locally.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Field Marshal Asim Munir visited the Defence Industrial Complex at POF Wah and reviewed the organisation’s production capabilities, export potential and role in strengthening Pakistan’s domestic defence industrial base.
During the visit, the field marshal was given a detailed briefing on various activities being undertaken by POF and its contribution to strengthening the country’s defence capabilities.
The briefing covered the local production and development of different types of military equipment, as well as ongoing efforts to enhance indigenous manufacturing and reduce reliance on imported defence equipment.
Field Marshal Asim Munir also witnessed trials and tests of various weapons and ammunition that had been designed and manufactured domestically. The demonstrations provided an overview of the capabilities being developed within Pakistan’s defence production sector.
According to ISPR, the field marshal was also briefed on progress towards transforming Pakistan Ordnance Factories into a more commercially oriented corporate entity. Officials provided details about initiatives aimed at expanding local manufacturing, upgrading existing systems and improving production capabilities.
The visit comes as Pakistan continues to focus on strengthening its indigenous defence industry and increasing self-reliance in the production of military equipment. Developing domestic capabilities is considered important for maintaining a reliable supply of defence equipment and reducing dependence on foreign sources.
During the briefing, officials also highlighted the export potential of POF products. Expanding defence exports could help Pakistan strengthen its position in international defence markets while generating additional revenue for the country’s defence industrial sector.
ISPR said that two new industrial plants are currently being installed at POF, with production expected to begin by the end of the current year. The new facilities are expected to contribute to the expansion of local production capabilities.
The installation of the new plants is part of broader efforts to modernise defence manufacturing facilities and improve the capacity of the country’s defence industrial complex. The move is also expected to support the development and production of advanced equipment and ammunition within Pakistan.
During the visit, Field Marshal Asim Munir reiterated the Pakistan Army’s commitment to promoting self-reliance, indigenous production and technological innovation in the defence sector.
The field marshal was briefed on the progress being made in local production and upgrading existing defence technologies. Such initiatives are aimed at improving the country’s ability to meet its defence requirements through domestic manufacturing.
The visit also provided an opportunity to review POF’s wider role in Pakistan’s defence industrial strategy. Established as a major defence production organisation, POF has traditionally been involved in manufacturing a range of weapons, ammunition and related military equipment for Pakistan’s armed forces.
The emphasis on indigenous design and manufacturing reflects Pakistan’s broader efforts to develop a stronger domestic defence industry. Local production can provide strategic advantages by ensuring greater control over supply chains, maintenance and upgrades while reducing exposure to disruptions in international defence markets.
The trials witnessed by Field Marshal Asim Munir also demonstrated the importance of research, development and testing in improving locally manufactured defence products. Continuous testing and evaluation are necessary to ensure that equipment meets operational requirements and maintains appropriate standards of reliability and performance.
The corporate transformation of POF is another significant aspect of the organisation’s ongoing development. According to ISPR, the field marshal was briefed on progress in this process as well as initiatives designed to improve production and modernise the organisation.
The focus on export opportunities indicates that POF is also seeking to expand beyond meeting domestic requirements. A stronger presence in international markets could help Pakistan’s defence industry increase its production scale and develop commercial relationships with foreign customers.
The two new industrial plants are expected to further strengthen this capacity once they begin production. Their planned operationalisation by the end of the year reflects the government and military’s focus on expanding defence manufacturing infrastructure.
Field Marshal Asim Munir’s visit also underscored the importance attached to technological advancement within the defence sector. Modern military requirements increasingly depend on advanced manufacturing, research and development, precision engineering and the ability to continuously upgrade existing systems.
According to ISPR, the field marshal appreciated the efforts being made towards indigenous production and technological development. He reiterated the commitment to enhancing Pakistan’s defence capabilities through local expertise and innovation.
The visit to POF Wah therefore focused on three major areas: strengthening domestic defence production, expanding technological capabilities and exploring opportunities for defence exports.
The development of a self-reliant defence industrial base remains an important strategic objective for Pakistan. Increasing local manufacturing capabilities can support the armed forces while also contributing to industrial development, technical expertise and employment in the country.
The latest initiatives at POF, including the installation of two new industrial plants and efforts to modernise existing production facilities, are expected to play a role in expanding Pakistan’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.
The visit concluded with Field Marshal Asim Munir reaffirming the commitment to self-reliance, local production and technological innovation in the defence sector, according to ISPR.
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