KARACHI – Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Pakistan Navy, emphasized the need for constant readiness and modernized strategy in today’s fast-evolving battlefield while addressing participants at the PAF Air War College Institute in Karachi on Monday.
Speaking as the chief guest, Admiral Ashraf didn’t mince words — he said staying prepared is no longer optional, it’s essential. Citing tensions along the eastern front, he stressed that operational foresight and agility have become more crucial than ever before.
Admiring the progress made by the Pakistan Air Force under Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, he acknowledged the PAF’s swift adoption of cutting-edge technologies. According to him, these upgrades have not only boosted the Air Force’s capabilities but also changed the game in terms of regional deterrence.
“Over the past few years, we’ve significantly upgraded the Navy’s combat strength — on the surface, undersea, and in the skies,” he said. “We’ve evolved into a more flexible, tech-savvy force, ready to take on challenges from any domain.”
Admiral Ashraf also underlined the importance of inter-service coordination. He revealed that the Navy and the Air Force are planning more joint drills to strengthen operational cooperation and ensure both forces are in lockstep during missions.
Technology was a recurring theme in his talk. He particularly emphasized the growing role of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) in future combat scenarios. On that note, he announced a new partnership between the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park and the Pakistan Maritime Science and Technology Park, aimed at building local expertise in unmanned and autonomous systems.
This collaboration, he said, will support Pakistan’s push toward self-reliance in high-tech defence capabilities and ensure a stronger, smarter military.
Before wrapping up, the Admiral lauded the Air War College Institute for its academic contributions to national defence. He praised its role in grooming the next generation of military leaders, capable of navigating the complexities of future warfare.
Air Vice Marshal Rashid Habib, President of the Institute, welcomed the Admiral upon his arrival.
