ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Navy Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf on Wednesday called for increasing the country’s capabilities in drones and unmanned systems to counter threats at sea, the navy said.
These comments from Ashraf came while he chaired a meeting of the navy’s Command & Staff Conference at the Naval Headquarters in Islamabad. The conference is the apex decision-making forum of the navy, where its chief, principal staff officers and field commanders review policies and strategic plans.
“Admiral Naveed Ashraf also emphasized the development of capabilities in unmanned systems, including drones and unmanned surface/underwater vessels, to enhance surveillance and response capabilities,” the navy’s media wing said in a statement.
Ashraf underscored the importance of maintaining perpetual combat readiness to effectively counter both traditional and non-traditional threats in the maritime domain, the statement added.
He appreciated the navy’s efforts to maintain maritime security during Pakistan’s four-day military conflict with India in May, highlighting the country’s “robust defense capabilities.”
“Naval Chief commended PN’s proactive measures in ensuring continuous flow of supplies through Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOCs) and uninterrupted operations at seaports,” the navy said.
Unmanned systems and drones help a country detect threats, track enemy movements and monitor maritime borders without risking lives.
These monitoring systems are cost-effective as well, helping navies extend their reach without the need for additional ships or personnel.
