Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, has underscored the critical importance of the Indian Ocean region, stating that future warfare strategies are increasingly being shaped by developments in this vital maritime domain. He warned that any disruption in the Indian Ocean could have significant implications for global trade and the international economy.
The remarks were made during a two-day international conference on “Emerging Technologies and Future Warfare,” organized under the Maritime Centre of Excellence. The conference brought together experts, policymakers, and representatives from defence industries, academia, and strategic institutions to discuss evolving geo-strategic trends and the impact of advanced technologies on modern warfare.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the conference aimed to foster dialogue on technological innovation, maritime security challenges, and future defence requirements in an increasingly complex global environment.
Addressing the participants, Admiral Naveed Ashraf emphasized that the Indian Ocean remains one of the most strategically significant regions in the world due to its central role in global maritime trade routes. He noted that any disruption in this sea corridor could have far-reaching consequences for global supply chains and economic stability.
The Naval Chief also highlighted the importance of strengthening indigenous defence production capabilities. He stated that local manufacturing and innovation are essential for developing a cost-effective and internationally competitive defence industry in Pakistan.
He further stressed the need for enhanced collaboration between the defence sector, industry stakeholders, and academic institutions to promote research, innovation, and the development of advanced technologies. According to him, such cooperation is crucial for keeping pace with rapidly evolving global defence trends.
The conference featured discussions on the integration of emerging technologies into modern naval warfare, with participants exploring future challenges and opportunities in maritime security.
Officials reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to strengthening its maritime capabilities and contributing to regional stability through technological advancement, strategic cooperation, and sustainable development in the defence sector.
