Karachi: Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf has underscored that operational preparedness remains the cornerstone of triumph in modern warfare. He was addressing participants of the Air War Course as a chief guest at the PAF Air War College Institute, Karachi on Monday.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Naval Chief referenced recent developments along the eastern front as a vivid illustration of the critical need for constant readiness and strategic foresight. He lauded Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu’s leadership in modernizing PAF and swiftly integrating advanced technologies that have significantly enhanced the operational readiness of the Pakistan Air Force and recalibrated the region’s deterrence landscape.

Admiral Naveed Ashraf reiterated that Pakistan Navy’s combat capabilities have undergone a substantial enhancement across all operational domains like surface, sub-surface, and aerial, enabling a more agile and potent maritime force. Emphasizing the imperative of cohesive national defence, he stressed the importance of inter-services collaboration in achieving strategic objectives. In this regard, he announced the initiation of more frequent and integrated joint operational exercises with Pakistan Air Force, aimed at further reinforcing the synergy and interoperability between the two services.

The Naval Chief also highlighted the transformative role of technological innovation in contemporary conflicts. Citing the growing significance of Unmanned Aerial Systems, he highlighted an upcoming strategic collaboration between the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park and Pakistan Maritime Science and Technology Park. He said this partnership will focus on advancing indigenous capabilities in unmanned systems, bolstering Pakistan’s technological self-reliance and operational edge in the defence sector.

The Chief Guest also lauded the academic and professional excellence being imparted at the institute and acknowledged its vital role in grooming future military leadership capable of meeting the multifaceted challenges of modern warfare. Earlier on his arrival, Admiral Naveed Ashraf was received by President Air War College Institute Air Vice Marshal Rashid Habib.