KARACHI – Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, emphasized that the Indian Ocean has emerged as a pivotal region where future warfare strategies are being shaped. He warned that any disruption to the vast global trade passing through these waters could have profound consequences for the global economy.
The Naval Chief was speaking as the Chief Guest at a two-day international conference titled “Emerging Technologies and Future Warfare,” organized by the Maritime Centre of Excellence in Karachi. According to the ISPR, the event focused on the impact of modern technology on shifting geo-strategic trends and the changing nature of conflict.
Admiral Naveed Ashraf stressed the need for strong synergy between the defense industry, end-users, and academia. He noted that prioritizing indigenous production and self-reliance would pave the way for a cost-effective, world-class defense industry in Pakistan. Highlighting the Indian Ocean’s economic significance, the Naval Chief reiterated that maintaining stability in this region is essential for uninterrupted international commerce.
The forum further highlighted how rapid technological advancements are forcing a redefinition of traditional defense strategies. The conference saw participation from high-ranking military leadership, policymakers, diplomats, industry experts, and scholars. The sessions concluded with a strong call for continuous intellectual and academic collaboration to keep pace with evolving global warfare trends.