Defence Turkey: Sir, first of all thank you for sparing your time for our readers. Your three year tenure began on October 7, 2023, what have been your most pressing domestic and regional problems? How successfully would you say you have tackled these?

PN CNS Adm. Naveed ASHRAF: Since I have assumed Command of Pakistan Navy, the geopolitical environment ofour region is changing rapidly especially due to ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict with its butterfly effect in Yemen & Iran. The already volatile maritime security environment coupled with diverse range of traditional and non-traditional maritime threats necessitates a robust, adaptive and technologically advanced Navy with well-trained HR. Therefore, since assuming command as Chiefofthe Naval Staff, the most pressing challenge was to enhance combat readiness through optimal utilization of resources and completion of ongoing Projects under financial constraints in order to boost Pakistan Navy's prowess in increasingly complex maritime security environment in the region.

During my tenure, I am most eager to prepare Pakistan Navy to counter both conventional and unconventional threats being posed to us. In addition, I would like to see PN performing 24/7 while ensuring security and stability in North Arabian Sea. I am committed to strengthening Pakistan's role as a key maritime player, capable of contributing to regional stability while protecting our sea lines of communication and economic interests.

Defence Turkey: How would you describe Pakistan Navy's core role and responsibility in national defense in overall regional defense architecture?

PN CNS Adm. Naveed ASHRAF: Ensuring seaward defense of Pakistan and protection of sea routes and maritime interests of Pakistan are the core tasks of PN. PN is a balanced multi-dimensional force and maintains highest level of combat preparedness to deal with the complete spectrum of threats stretching fromInon- traditional to conventional threats.

In addition, PN has been participating in all regional and international efforts and initiativesfor maintaining good order at sea. PN's support to Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), operating under the auspices of US NAVCENT, exemplifies our commitment ot the common goal of ensuring freedom of navigation for uninterrupted flow of sea trade in the region.

PN has also been participating in various International Foras, Multinational Exercises. and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief efforts and has undertaken Non-Combatant Evacuation of stranded Pakistani and foreign nationals from conflict zones.

Defence Turkey: The Pakistan Navy is a small yet a potent and balanced force, capable of safeguard Pakistan's maritime interests and ensuring seaward defense of the country. Can you elaborate us on the current force structure and assets of Pakistan Navy?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: Pakistan Navy is a balanced force, which is capable to respond to full spectrum of conflicts and is optimized to evolving character of warfare, rehearsed to perform in time sensitive situations and remains combat ready. Manned by competent HR, integrated through NCW and with a right balance between manned and unmanned assets, our fleet si capable to deal with diverse maritime challenges.

Pakistan naval fleet comprises of a balanced four dimensional force. Our surface forces include modern frigates, missile craft, mine hunters, auxiliary tankers, survey vessels and trainingship. Our subsurface force consists of potent conventional submarines. We have a naval air arm with state of the LRMPAs, helicopters and UAVs. PN also has Special Operations Forces and Pak Marines. Our focus remains on induction of advanced capabilities so that despite our smaller size, we remain fully capable to undertake our assigned tasks.

Defence Turkey: We live in a rapidly transforming world characterized by uncertainty and complexity. The emerging security paradigm coupled with unresolved regional disputes have spawned new challenges for your nation. Thus as an essential instrument of state policy, Pakistan Navy should be quick to adapt to new realities to safeguard national interests in the maritime arena. Could you please briefly explain the prime aspects of this adaptation/ transformation process that necessitate by changing geopolitical situation, bringing about new roles and tasks with entailing need to re-structure and re-equip? Can youdescribe any organizational changes underway or planned?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: PN stands ready and committed to promote peace and stability in the region and maintain a legitimate maritime order in cooperation with partners for lawful maritime activities to take place unimpeded. In this regard, PN's forcestructure is under constant development by acquisition of force multipliers and cutting edge technologies while also achieving parity/mix ofoffensive and defensive potential. Up-gradation of requisite intrastructure ashore to support Fleet is also under concurrent development.

Defence Turkey: Its geo-strategic position and geopolitical situation obliges Pakistan to be a maritime state and dictates ot have a sustain a powerful naval force. The Pakistan Navy (PN) has not hidden its desire to become a major blue water power (one capable of sustained operations across open oceans) in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). With geopolitics undergoing amajor realignment phase, the PN has become a major tool to project force, create goodwill throughout the region and increase Pakistan's influence in the IOR. How is Pakistan Navy developing its capacity to tackle current and future challenges in the IOR?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: Naval forces especially, in developing countries, are compelled to look for economical and cost-effective solutions for their security needs due to restrictions and high cost of modern military technology. We are making all endeavors to modernize our existing wherewithal as per the situational dictates while emphasizing more on indigenous development and remaining within the confines of our budgetary allocations. Our developmental plan is centered on achieving and maintaining credible deterrence without being engaged in an arms race. Our existing modernization program, is based on operational reach, speed and flexibility and is aligned with our needs.

Defence Turkey: By mid-decade the PN will have a radically different fleet with new Chinese submarines and frigates, Turkish corvettes, and more indigenous missile boats. How does this change the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) balance of power? Are you confident of having a credible conventional deterrence against India?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF:  While India continues to portray itself as a net security provider/first responder in the Indian Ocean, we will continue to maintain our presence in the ocean. We are not in an arms race with India; however we maintain adequate capacity to accomplish assigned tasks effectively.

Defence Turkey: 95% of Pakistan's trade by volume and 100% of its oil imports are routed through the North Arabian Sea therefore, Pakistan's prosperity and progress in intrinsically linked to safety and security of its maritime domain. That is why ensuring maritime security in the Northern Arabian Sea and Western Indian Ocean Region is one of the top priorities of PN. Could you brief us on the Pakistan Navy's on-going efforts to assure the protection of sea routes and maritime interests of the Country?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF:  Our key priority is to keep the maritime environment safe against non- traditional threats and effectively contribute towards safety and security  of vital sea lanes in the Arabian Sea, to our best abilities despite being a moderate Navy. There is no second opinion on the fact that enhancing naval cooperation with other navies will help to ensure maritime security in the Arabian Sea and adjacent regions. PN contributions in CTF-150, CTF-151, conduct of Regional Maritime Security Patrols (RMSPs), establishment of SMICC and regular participation in bi/tri-lateral events, conduct of Ex AMAN & AMAN Dialogue, all point in the same direction.

Defence Turkey: How do you see the Pakistan Navy's future role in the region? What are the main perceived maritime security threats and challenges?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: By 2035, we shall have all new, modern and potent platforms backed up by numerous force multipliers like Jet LRMPs, UCAVs, VTOLs, etc., enabling us to maintain deterrence, stabilty and maritime prosperity in the Arabian Sea. I envision our RMSP initiative to have broader footprint. Moreover, I also see AMAN to expand and become a wider global event attracting more participants from afar and wide.

Defence Turkey: How do you see the asymmetric threats at sea and from the sea developing? How is your Navy facing up to these issues?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: Asymmetric threats pose great challenge to sea fearers and North Arabian Sea is no exception. In this regard, PN is utilizing its assets to effectively contribute towards Maritime Domain Awareness and coordinate responses against asymmetric threats through collaborative maritime security construct. PN SMICC remains the hub of rapid and free flow of information with local as well as international stake holders against such threats.

Defence Turkey: How do you assess the Pakistan Navy (PN)'s contributions to regional peace and your Navy's cooperation with neighbouring states' Navies?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF:  PN aspires to maintain and enhance collaboration with friendly navies with particular focus on enhancing collaboration at regional level and encourage maritime regimes at international and regional levels. In the same context, Pakistan Navy joined International Community in its efforts to maintain regional peace and stability in our maritime milieu. In this regard, we are actively participating in CTF-150 and CTF-151. I may mention that PN's concerted efforts in CMF have been widely recognized at international level and has helped us to foster lasting partnerships in the region and beyond. Furthermore, PN has also instituted Maritime Security initiative of 'Regional Maritime Security Patrol' (RSMP) to fulfill international obligations for Maritime Security and protect own national interest in the IOR with strategic autonomy. Additionally, with the aim to achieve regional harmony and collaborative maritime security.PN is also organizing AMAN series of exercises biennially since 2007.

Defence Turkey: Maritime security has diverse meanings as it largely depends on the purpose and context for which the term is referred to. When used in the backdrop of freedom of the seas, it generally means environment free from threats to good order at sea. In 2018, as result of re-evaluation of the maritime environment and recalibration of its maritime security choices, Pakistan Navy launched maritime security initiative of Regional Maritime Security Patrol (RMSP). Can you collaborate on the purpose, coverage area and chief objectives of RMSP and the tasks PN have accomplished so far under RMSP?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: RMSP was launched in 2018 as part of our strategy to enhance stability at seas, which aims 'to maintain a threat-free environment in Pakistan's immediate and distant neighborhood, so that economic & scientific activities at sea continue unhindered'. RMSP has three components: RMSP East (towards Maldives and Sri Lanka etc), RMSP West (Gulf of Aden and Africa's east coast) and RMSP North (Gulf of Oman, Persian Gulf and North Arabian Sea). These patrols have enabled PN to maintain deterrence, stability, maritime prosperity while deterring illicit activities in Indian Ocean Region.

Defence Turkey: Can you list the most important procurement and modernization programs of your Navy and the envisaged time frame of realization?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF:  We've been focusing on induction of modern platforms, force multipliers, indigenization and maintaining diversified options to mitigate external dependencies. We have inducted State-of-the-art Type 054 Frigates from China, OPV's from Romania and MILGEM Class Corvette from Türkiye. We are in the process of inducting remaining MILGEM class ships as 2 of these ships are being constructed indigenously at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works. HANGOR Submarines will also form part of our Fleet soon.

Defence Turkey: How is Pakistan's economic situation impacting acquisition/ modernization programs and operational plans?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: PN developmental plan is centered on achieving and maintaining credible deterrence without being engaged in an arms race. We are fully cognizant of the asymmetry in numbers compared to our adversary and our existing modernization program, which is based on operational reach, speed and flexibility is aligned with our needs and is designed to deliver a deterrence through use of superior tactics in times to come.

Naval Forces especially, in developing countries, are compelled to look for economical and cost-effective solutions for their security needs due to restrictions and high cost of modern military technology. We will make all endeavors to modernize our existing wherewithal as per the situational dictates while emphasizing more on indigenous development and remaining within the confines of our budgetary allocations.

Defence Turkey: Under a US$750 Million contract signed in October 2005, Pakistan procured four F-22P Zulfiquar Class Frigates from China and the fourth ship (F-254 PNS Aslat) was constructed in Pakistan via Transfer of Technology (ToT). The Four F-22P Zulfiquar Class Frigates, which have remained the mainstay of Pakistan Navy fleet since their induction and have provided much needed operational flexibility to the navy are now undergoing Mid-life Upgrade (MLU). Can you elaborate on the coverage/extend, delivery schedule and the current status of this modernization effort?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: Induction of F-22P ships has provided much needed operational flexibility with respect to number of surface platforms vis PN operational commitments. The deal included ToT through which PN would attain indigenous construction capability of warships. These ships are configured with state-of-the-art sensor & weapon systems which fulfill our requirements and have significantly boosted the capability of PN Fleet. These ships are being upgraded indigenously as per the operational dictates and technological advancements.

Defence Turkey: Under the contracts signed in 2017 and on June, 2018 Pakistan has procured a total of four Type 054A/P Frigates (classified as Tughril Class) from China and the lead ship named as PNS Tughril (F-261) was commissioned into PN service at a ceremony held at Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai, China on November 8, 2021. PNS Taimur (F-262) the second ship, was inducted into the PN service on June 23, 2022. The third and fourth ships, named PNS Tippu Sultan (F-263) and PNS Shah Jahan (F-264), were simultaneously commissioned on May 10, 2023. Equipped with state-of-the art combat management and an electronic warfare system along with modern self-defense capabilities the Type 054A/P Frigates are the largest and most advanced warships China has ever exported. What new set of capabilities have the Tughril Class Frigates added to the surface combat fleet of Pakistan Navy? Do you have a plan to procure further ships in this Class?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: Induction of Chinese-origin Type 054 A/P Tughril Class Frigates is an important project for PN. Type 054 A/P are multi-role frigates and equipped with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors. CM-302 SSM and LY-80 SAM onboard Type 054 A/Ps has substantially enhanced PN anti-surface and anti-air warfare capabilities. Furthermore, these ships are also equipped with latest sensors, sub-surface weapons and Combat Management System to accomplish assigned tasks in contemporary operating environment. Future induction of ships will be considered as per PN requirement and Govt of Pakistan directions.

Defence Turkey: During my interview with your predecessor Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan NIAZI in November 2022, he mentioned that the ALBATROS NG Air Defense Missile System currently installed on PN-MILGEM (BABUR Class) Corvettes was also being considered for use on JINNAH and F-22P Class ships. Is this plan still valid?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF:  As is the case with any equipment, a number of factors such as specific roles of the platform being equipped, ease of integration, cost, etc., are taken into account prior finalizing the equipment. Broadly answering your question, standardization of equipment is always a preferred option for the ease of operation and maintenance. Accordingly, ALBATROS SAM are under consideration for JINNAH Class Frigates and F-22P Ships.

Defence Turkey: PN is also procuring 8 HANGOR Class Submarines with Air-Independent PropuIsion (AIP) system from China by 2028. They are currently under various stages of construction in Pakistan and China. Can you elaborate on the technical specifications and capabilities of the HANGOR Class Submarines and their delivery schedule? What will the HANGOR Class AIP Submarines bring to PN? Do they incorporate any Pakistan specific equipment and capabilities?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: Hangor Submarines will significantly enhance Pakistan's naval capabilities. These submarines will provide improved stealth, maneuverability and firepower, allowing our Navy to execute a wider range of ops effectively. With advanced sensors and weapons systems, Hangor subs will strengthen our operational readiness and enhance our ability to deny access to adversaries in contested waters and soon 1st Hangor Class S/M will join PN Fleet.

Defence Turkey: Pakistan Navy's submarine force represents the offensive punch and a mean to strike the enemy at long ranges. Under the contract signed in September 1994 Pakistan procured three Agosta -90B Class Submarines (fitted with MESMA Air-Independent Propulsion system) from France and two of them were constructed at Pakistan Navy Dockyard under the Transfer of Technology (TOT) agreement with France. In June 2016 Turkish state-owned defense contractor Savunma Teknolojileri Mühendislik ve Ticaret A.S (STM) has won a contract for the Mid-Life Upgrade (MLU) of the Agosta-90B Class (aka Khalid Class) diesel-electric attack submarines. Can you elaborate on the current status of this program? What do the MLU of Khalid Class Submarines bring to Pakistan Navy? Does the upgrade meet the Pakistan Navy's expectations? How do you assess the operational capabilities of modernized Agosta-90Bs?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: First of all, we are thankful to our Turkish brothers for upgrading our Khalid Class Submarines. The MLU program has significantly enhanced the operational capability of our Submarine force and we hope that such N2N collaboration between both countries will further flourish in days to come.

Defence Turkey: How would you describe the importance and status of integrating sophisticated weapons on PN ships and submarines?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: I believe that Pakistan finds itself in midst of a complex competition prevailing in the region. Our maritime security is linked with the maritime environment in the Indian Ocean, which is rapidly transforming. To effectively deal with today's complex multi-threat environment, we are in the process of equipping PN fleet with latest and sophisticated weapons and sensors and will continue to do the same in future as well without getting into an arm race with any country.

Defence Turkey: Within the scope of the PN-MILGEM Project, which launched under a Government-to-Government contract awarded in July 2018, Pakistan Navy will procure 4 corvettes based on the design of ADA Class Corvettes of the Turkish Naval Forces (TNF). The lead ship of PN-MILGEM/BABUR Class Corvette Program PNS Babur (280) was inducted into PN service with a ceremony held on September 6, 2024 at Karachi, can we hear your personal assessment on BABUR Class Corvettes?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: We have been focusing on acquisitions of modern platforms, force multipliers, indigenization and maintaining diversified options to mitigate external dependencies. In this regard, we have recently inducted MILGEM Class Corvette from Türkiye. As per my personal assessment, MILGEM Class Corvettes with latest weapons and sensors will be a significant addition to PN existing capabilities to effectively deal with today's complex multi-threat environment. We are in the process of inducting remaining MILGEM Class ships as 2 of these ships are being constructed indigenously at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works.

Defence Turkey: PN design teams, which took part in PN-MILGEM design efforts in İstanbul, Türkiye together with the Turkish naval ship designers, have also started to design a new ship, which is called the JINNAH Class. The second model of JINNAH Class was displayed (TNF) for the first time during the IDEF '21 Fair in August 2021 at the ASFAT stand. Can you give us an update on the JINNAH Class Frigate (JCF) Project? What are the latest developments of the JCF Project? When will construction commence and the first ship be launched?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: The Jinnah Class Frigate marks a significant advancement for my Navy as our first indigenously designed and produced large warship. The first frigate is scheduled to be launched soon, with subsequent units planned for delivery at a consistent tempo that aligns with our operational requirements, strategic objectives and availability of resources.

In terms of domestic production, a considerable percentage of the Jinnah Class Frigates will be built within Pakistan. Currently, our industrial base is developing and gearing up for this initiative and we anticipate that our technological capabilities will grow throughout the program. This growth will be facilitated through partnerships with experienced defense partners (from friendly countries).

Defence Turkey: Over a period of time, Pakistan's defense industry has seen steady growth; meeting national security requirements and drawing down pull on foreign exchequer with increased reliance on indigenization. What is the potential of naval ship building industry in Pakistan, to what extent has the private sector been included in your acquisition/ modernization programs, and where can you see room for improvement?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: Indigenization and modernization of Pakistan Navy is an important cardinal of my vision. Our development strategy is based on 'progressive capability enhancement' so as to create a balanced, potent and combat ready force to deal with the evolving threats through acquisition of force multipliers, indigenous and innovative technical solutions. Our ship building industry is gradually gearing up to meet the future requirements and likewise, local defense industry in Pakistan is also steadily contributing towards development of naval equipment, sensors and weapon systems.

Defence Turkey: Pakistan Navy has always strived to maintain an offensive sub-surface capability through Transfer of Technology (TOT) to accrue its industrial and operational benefits. One high volume but low overall cost area of shipbuilding is steel production. Though not currently the case, will locally-produced steel be used to construct future warship? Can you share any figure about the current local content rates in surface and submarine programs?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF:  Yes, we will make all efforts to engage in-country steel producers so as to strengthen our industrial base while reducing reliance on foreign vendors.

Defence Turkey: What new and emerging technologies do you consider vital for the Navy to acquire in order to maintain its effectiveness?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: Character of war has transformed with use of smarter technologies such as drones, unmanned vehicles, artificial Intelligence, supersonic/hypersonic missiles, glide vehicles and loitering munitions etc. In this regard, to keep up with rapidly evolving technological domain, PN has tailored its developmental strategy and procurement and R&D efforts are also being steered to induct smarter future technologies.

Defence Turkey: Could you please inform our readers on the current status of Pakistan Navy Jet LRMPA Upgrade Project, under which Embraer ERJ190 Lineage 1000E Jet aircraft being converted into LRMPA. The first aircraft was dispatched to South Africa's Paramount Group facilities for conversion in 2022. When is the first jet expected to be delivered to the PN, and will future conversions be undertaken domestically?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF:  The induction of the Embraer's jet aircraft into our Naval Air Arm is a remarkable addition to our maritime patrol capabilities. The first aircraft after modernization is expected to be delivered in 2026, with subsequent deliveries planned over the coming years as part of a phased approach to modernize our naval aviation. With its state-of-the-art technology, the aircraft will complement our existing platforms, such as the older P3C Orion and ATRs while offering superior performance in terms of range, endurance and ASW capabilities.

Defence Turkey: How do you assess the existing capabilities of the Turkish Naval Sector companies in meeting the Pakistan Navy's modernization requirements?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: Türkiye has played a pivotal role in modernization of Pakistan's Naval Industry. The strategic partnership has significantly enhanced Pakistan Navy's capabilities, enabling it to better defend its maritime interests. The most notable examples of this cooperation are MILGEM Class Corvettes and MLU of Khalid Class S/Ms.

Defence Turkey: What is the possibility of joint naval industry programs with Türkiye, on surface platforms? On airborne platforms, ASW and/or Maritime Patrol? On Weapon Systems?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: Pakistan and Türkiye enjoy long standing brotherly relations and our defense industry is already collaborating in various fields including shipbuilding and various other domains. Indigenous construction of MILGEM Class Corvettes at Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works in collaboration with Türkiye is a case in point.

Defence Turkey: Turkey enjoys deep-rooted brotherly and strategic relations with Pakistan. Since its independence, Pakistan has been enjoying very friendly and warm bilateral relations with Turkey in all fields especially defense. Military cooperation between these two brotherly countries, which started soon after Pakistan's independence, has been flourishing ever since, resulting in closer cooperation and understanding between the Armed Forces of the two countries. How do you evaluate the current state of Pakistan-Türkiye cooperation in the naval field? What is your forecast for the future?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: Relations between Pakistan and Türkiye have traditionally been exceptionally close; routed firmly in common religion and cultural legacy. For centuries, there has been a free flow of people and ideas as well as religious and mystical traditions between the lands that now constitute Türkiye and Pakistan, shaping a strong perception of a common civilizational heritage. Therefore, the relationship between Pakistan and Türkiye has stood the test of time and there is convergence of views on important regional and international issues. These similarities and strong ties have led to valuable military cooperation. The navies of both countries are extensively involved in broad-based engagements, ranging from high level visits, operational engagements to collaboration in training domain. With induction of Turkish origin platforms in PN especially MILGEM Class Corvettes, I foresee the interactions to increase in future, with focus towards enhancing interoperability between two navies.

Defence Turkey: The Pakistan Navy (PN) has been hosting the Multinational Naval Exercise AMAN biennially since March 2007. Exercise AMAN brings together a number of Ships, Aircraft, SOF/EOD Teams and Observers from Navies East to West under one umbrella for collaborative peace and security in the maritime domain. Could you please tell us about the progress made so far for AMAN 2025? Why is Exercise AMAN gaining importance and relevance today for the region? Why is Exercise AMAN important for Pakistan in particular? What message PN would like to convey to regional navies through the AMAN series of exercises?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: Objective of AMAN-25 are to: foster regional & extra-regional cooperation for maintenance of good order at sea, enhance interoperability thereby acting as a bridge between the regions, share experiences, understand each other and exhibit united resolve against terrorism and crimes in the maritime domain. We are fully prepared to conduct AMAN-25 with enhanced participation of friendly countries in a professional and befitting manner. I may mention that previous edition of the exercise heId in February 2023, witnessed the participation from 50 countries across the globe. Keeping the same spirit, we are hopeful that this edition will also mark a distinctive chapter in history of AMAN exercises with enhanced participation of countries. Moreover, we are also looking forward for a healthy participation of chiefs of navies, coast guards and other organizations during the AMAN Dialogue.

Defence Turkey: Can you brief us on some of the PN's future requirements?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF:  We will continue to modernize our Navy to meet the challenges of contemporary era. I may mention that by 2035, we shall have all new, modern and potent platforms backed up numerous force multipliers like Jet LRMPs, UCAVs, VTOLs, etc., enabling us to maintain deterrence, stability and maritime prosperity in the Arabian Sea. I envision our RMSP initiative to have broader footprint. Moreover, I also see AMAN to expand and become a wider global event attracting more participants from afar and wide.

Defence Turkey: How do you see the PN's future role in the region? What are the main perceived maritime security threats and challenges?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: I believe that the geo-political environment is volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous, characterized by realignment of interests. We find ourselves in the midst of a geopolitical and geo-economic competition prevailing in our region. Our maritime security is linked with the environment in the Indian Ocean, which is rapidly transforming.

I feel that the neighboring countries can co-operate together in a region-centric maritime security construct and ensure that stability at sea is maintained through collective efforts. In this regard, PN will continue to play its role towards maintaining peace and stability in the region.

Defence Turkey: What is the way ahead for the Pakistan Navy?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF:  PN aims to become a balanced yet effective Naval Force that is able to operate in all dimensions of naval warfare. We are pursuing the projects to enhance our surface, sub-surface and aviation forces and to build capacity of Special Operations Forces. We are also taking steps to bolster coastal and ports security. It may be noted here that we don't have any aggressive or expansionist designs against anyone but are deeply concerned by massive naval build-up of our adversary especially with the acquisition and operations of nuclear submarines in the region. We therefore remain alive to the situation and contributing effectively towards credible deterrence, preservation of national security, safeguarding of maritime interests and advancing regional maritime security.

Defence Turkey: Admiral Naveed ASHRAF, would you like to add anything in the way of a closing message to our readers?

PN CNS Adm. ASHRAF: Today, seas are becoming increasingly important due economics, for which navy remains an essential instrument to safeguard maritime interests. Additionally, economic compulsions and fast changing security outlook have forced nations to come closer to each other than yester years. In this regard. the ongoing efforts of Turkish Navy (TN) are highly commendable. TN's commitment to effectively contribute to global peace and security deserves special appreciation. On these footprints, PN is also pursuing the policy of Collaborative Maritime Security through increased interaction with international community. Hence, there lies enormous potential for both the navies to widen their mutual interaction and gain bilateral support to generate positive effects in maritime arena.

Defence Turkey: Admiral ASHRAF, thank you for sparing your valuable time for our readers