TAXILA: The Senate standing committee on defence production was informed here on Monday that the Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF) had set the export target of Rs100 million this year.

In joint venture with different countries, POF is gradually revamping its plants and machinery to meet the requirements of modern era warfare, the senators were informed during a visit to the facility.

On their arrival at POF, the members of the Senate committee, headed by retired Lt-Gen Abdul Qayyum, were received by POF chief retired Lt-Gen Omar Mahmood Hayat.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Hayat said POF was the main defence organisation of the country which was not only meeting the defense requirements of the armed forces but also exporting its products to more than 30 countries.

He informed the membersof the upperhouse thatPOF had 14 factories and plants and six subsidiaries with a total workforce of over 24,000 engineers and technicians.

The industrial base of POF is strong enough to undertal(e development and production of almost all types of conventional arms and ammunition.

The senators later visited the POF product display lounges and were taken around some production units where they witnessed the manufacturing process of arms and ammunition.

The delegation showed keen interest in the manufacturing process of arms and ammunition and lauded the quality of the products.

The chairman of the committee said financial independence and autonomy would increase the capabilities of the prestigious organisation.

He also said the committee would play its role for the establishment of housing societies for the POF employees.