New Delhi: Operations of the Pakistan Navy submarines close to the Gujarat coast have come to notice during the last two months, Defence Minister George Fernandes informed the Lok Sabha today (Dec 11, 2003).

"There is also known deployment of Pakistani troops near the West Coast of Gujarat opposite Rann of Kutch and Sir Creek Island," he said in a written reply.

Fernandes said Indian armed forces were monitoring the sea and the land deployment and movement of Pakistani troops.

On other Defence issues, the Minister said that India's pilotless aircraft 'Lakshya' has come in for immense appreciation from abroad, especially Israel.

Replying to a query by Ajay Chautala (INLD), Fernandes said the cost of the aircraft is Rs 2.9 crore.

'Lakshya' was inducted into Indian Air Force in November 2000.

PTI