Pakistan which has long depended on western equipment for its armed forces is facing quality and reliability issues with newly inducted Chinese equipment, with a main battle tank failing post delivery tests and a freshly procured heavy artillery gun facing multiple technical issues during firing trials.
Sources have told ET that there have also been delays in supply of field artillery guns by China’s NORINCO (North Industries Corporation) and the production of main battle tanks have been temporarily halted as investigations are on to determine the reason for the faults.
In an attempt to increase its artillery firepower, the Pakistani Army received at least eight of the heavy 203 mm towed guns from NORINCO that were tested at its ranges earlier this month. Sources said that the guns faced several issues during firing trails at Sonmiani (Pakistan), which included faults in the rammer assembly and breech lock.
Following the trials, the Chinese manufacturer has been told to investigate the cause and identify reasons for failure. In the past, Pakistan has relied on the US to supply it 203 mm heavy artillery grade weapons but has gradually been shifting towards cheaper Chinese options. While eight guns were initially supplied, the Pak Army would look at a larger number in the future if satisfied with their performance.
