Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf has stated that the Pakistan Navy was fully prepared to target an Indian aircraft carrier during what he referred to as “Maarka-e-Haq” (Battle for Truth), but the Indian Navy remained confined to what it considered safer zones. His remarks underscore Pakistan Navy’s preparedness and strategic posture in safeguarding the country’s maritime interests.

The Naval Chief made these statements while addressing a ceremony marking the induction of the second PN MILGEM-class warship, PNS Khyber, into the Pakistan Navy fleet. The event highlighted the navy’s ongoing modernization efforts and its commitment to strengthening maritime defense capabilities in an increasingly complex regional security environment.

In his address, Admiral Naveed Ashraf emphasized the importance of Pakistan’s strategic geographical location, which lies along critical global maritime trade and energy routes. He noted that such a position necessitates a strong and capable naval force to ensure the protection of national interests and secure sea lines of communication. According to him, the evolving nature of maritime threats requires continuous enhancement of naval capabilities.

Referring to past tensions, the Naval Chief revealed that during “Maarka-e-Haq,” the Pakistan Navy had made full operational preparations to engage and potentially target the Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier. However, he claimed that the Indian Navy chose to remain within its perceived safe zones, avoiding direct confrontation. While he did not provide specific operational details, the statement reflects the level of readiness maintained by Pakistan’s naval forces during periods of heightened tensions.

Admiral Ashraf reiterated that any attempt to challenge Pakistan’s maritime interests would be met with a strong and decisive response. He stressed that the Pakistan Navy remains vigilant and fully capable of defending the country’s territorial waters, economic zones, and critical maritime infrastructure against any external threat.

Highlighting the navy’s modernization drive, the Naval Chief pointed out that Pakistan Navy is being equipped with advanced platforms and cutting-edge technologies. These enhancements, he said, are designed to improve the force’s ability to identify and target key enemy infrastructure, vulnerabilities, and naval assets with precision and effectiveness.

The induction of PNS Khyber, a state-of-the-art MILGEM-class warship, represents a significant milestone in this modernization process. The vessel is equipped with advanced combat systems, sensors, and weapons, enabling it to operate in a variety of maritime environments and perform multiple roles, including anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare.

In addition to surface fleet expansion, Admiral Ashraf also highlighted the importance of strengthening submarine capabilities. He mentioned the upcoming induction of Hangor-class submarines, which are expected to further enhance Pakistan Navy’s deterrence and operational reach. These submarines will play a crucial role in maintaining a credible defense posture in the region.

The Naval Chief expressed confidence in the professionalism and dedication of Pakistan Navy personnel. He extended his best wishes to the crew of PNS Khyber, urging them to uphold the highest standards of service and remain committed to defending the nation’s maritime frontiers.

He concluded by reaffirming the Pakistan Navy’s resolve to protect the country’s maritime boundaries and fulfill its responsibilities under all circumstances. The statements reflect a broader message of preparedness, deterrence, and continued investment in modern naval capabilities to address emerging security challenges in the region.