Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf has underscored the importance of a strong, balanced, and technologically advanced Pakistan Navy, highlighting its growing capabilities to protect the nation’s maritime interests.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Admiral Ashraf made the remarks during the induction ceremony of the second PN MILGEM-Class Corvette, PNS KHAIBAR, into the Pakistan Navy’s fleet.

Addressing the gathering, Admiral Naveed Ashraf highlighted that Pakistan’s strategic location along vital maritime trade and energy corridors demands a potent naval force to safeguard national interests and ensure secure Sea Lines of Communications (SLOCs).

The Naval Chief underscored that during Marka-e-Haq, Pakistan Navy was poised to sink the Indian navy’s aircraft carrier, which forced the Indian navy to remain confined to its safe havens.

The mastery and conduct of naval operations during Marka-e-Haq delivers an unequivocal message that any attempt to challenge Pakistan’s maritime interests will be met with an appropriate response, he added.

The Naval Chief emphasised that Pakistan Navy is being equipped with state-of-the-art platforms and niche technologies enabling it to target critical infrastructure/ vulnerabilities and the naval assets of the adversary.

Inductions of advanced platforms like PNS KHAIBAR and the forthcoming HANGOR Class Submarines mark a milestone in PN’s modernisation; enhancing operational flexibility, combat power and the strategic reach.

Concluding his address, the Naval Chief extended best wishes to the PNS KHAIBAR crew while reaffirming Pakistan Navy’s resolve to defend sovereign seas and uphold its responsibility as guardian of the maritime frontiers.