This special issue will be personally delivered during the AMAN-25 Exercise to senior officials of the Pakistan Navy and Armed Forces, including the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) of the Pakistan Navy, Admiral Naveed ASHRAF.

As part of this issue, we conducted an exclusive interview with Admiral Naveed ASHRAF, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) of the Pakistan Navy. In this insightful interview, Admiral ASHRAF shared valuable perspectives on the Pakistan Navy (PN)’s ongoing modernization efforts, their existing collaboration with the Turkish Defence Industry, and on the way ahead for the Pakistan Navy.

The interview with Pakistan Navy Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral ASHRAF offers a comprehensive overview of the modernization, strategic vision, and future role of the Pakistan Navy (PN). Admiral ASHRAF highlights several key projects and collaborations that are strengthening Pakistan's naval capabilities, particularly in terms of surface, sub-surface, and aerial platforms, and emphasizes the strategic importance of international partnerships.

Below are the key highlights and insights derived from the interview:

Naval Exercises and Regional Cooperation: The biennial AMAN Exercise hosted by Pakistan Navy aims to foster collaboration in maritime security across nations, with the 2025 edition expected to see even more participation. This demonstrates Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability and collective maritime security.

Strategic Importance of the Navy: Admiral ASHRAF emphasizes that while Pakistan does not seek to be expansionist, it is closely monitoring the evolving naval dynamics in the region, particularly the military build-up of adversaries. The Navy aims to maintain a credible deterrent and play a stabilizing role in the region’s maritime security.

The Role of the Navy in Global Maritime Security: The Pakistan Navy is focused on collaborative maritime security, building stronger ties with international navies, especially Turkey, to ensure peace and stability at sea.

Modernization Efforts:

• Focus on Cost-Effective Solutions: The Pakistan Navy is prioritizing economical and indigenous solutions to modernize its fleet, keeping budgetary constraints in mind. Emphasis is laid on balancing operational reach, speed, and flexibility.
• New Inductions:
  • Type 054 A/P Frigates: Multi-role frigates with advanced weapons (e.g., CM-302 SSM, LY-80 SAM) enhancing anti-surface and anti-air warfare capabilities.
  • MILGEM/BABUR Class Corvettes: Inducted from Türkiye, with two being built locally under Transfer of Technology (ToT) at Karachi Shipyard.
  • HANGOR Class Submarines: Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP)-equipped submarines being procured from China to boost stealth and firepower capabilities.
  • Jet LRMPA Upgrade: Conversion of Embraer ERJ190 aircraft into modern maritime patrol platforms, complementing existing P-3C Orions and ATR-72/500 aircraft.
• Mid-Life Upgrades (MLU):
• F-22P Frigates: Upgrades being conducted locally, integrating new technologies for improved operational capabilities.
• Agosta-90B Submarines: Collaboration with Türkiye for MLU has significantly enhanced their performance and operational lifespan.

Collaboration with Türkiye:

• Joint Projects:
  • Indigenization of MILGEM/BABUR Class Corvettes.
  • Successful MLU of Agosta-90B Submarines, highlighting Türkiye's expertise in naval modernization.
  • Future opportunities for joint programs in shipbuilding, maritime patrol platforms, and weapon systems.
• Assessment of Turkish Naval Sector: Admiral ASHRAF praised Türkiye's contributions, particularly in advancing Pakistan's naval capabilities and defense industry through strategic collaboration.

Indigenous Development:

• JINNAH Class Frigates: The first large, indigenously designed warships, showcasing Pakistan's growing shipbuilding capabilities.
• Local Content: Efforts are underway to incorporate locally-produced steel and increase the indigenous component in naval platforms, gradually reducing reliance on foreign vendors.

Admiral ASHRAF’s Vision for 2035:

• A fully modernized navy with advanced platforms, such as Jet LRMPAs, UCAVs, VTOLs, and new-generation ships and submarines, ensuring deterrence and maritime prosperity in the Arabian Sea and beyond.

This interview underscores the Pakistan Navy's focus on achieving operational excellence, fostering regional cooperation, and modernizing within fiscal constraints to address evolving maritime challenges.