The Pakistan Navy stands ever vigilant, fully prepared to counter any threats in the region, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Raja Rab Nawaz assured on Tuesday, emphasizing the force’s proactive monitoring and robust operational posture.
Speaking to media on the second day of the Pakistan International Maritime Expo and Conference (PIMEC-25) at the Karachi Expo Centre, Vice Admiral Nawaz highlighted the Navy’s ongoing vigilance: “We are always keeping an eye on whatever is happening around us. We are always monitoring what is happening. This is an ongoing thing—our monitoring and our readiness.”
Opening ceremony of the 2nd Pakistan Int’l Maritime Expo & Conferenc (PIMEC-25) held at Expo Centre Karachi. Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal was CG & Saudi Minister of Transport H.E. Saleh Al Jasser was Guest of Honour. Both were received by CNS Adm Naveed Ashraf. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/9fcvpijC9d
— DGPR (Navy) (@dgprPaknavy) November 3, 2025
PIMEC-25, running from November 3 to 6, brings together over 150 local organizations and 28 international firms to showcase maritime innovations, foster B2B and B2G partnerships, and drive investment in Pakistan’s burgeoning Blue Economy. The event features a dynamic exhibition, high-level conferences, and MoU signings, underscoring the Navy’s pivotal role in advancing national maritime potential.
Vice Admiral Nawaz spotlighted upcoming fleet enhancements, noting that Pakistan will soon induct advanced Hangor-class submarines—diesel-electric vessels with air-independent propulsion, built in collaboration with China under a landmark $5 billion program. The first of eight submarines is slated for active service in 2026, with launches of the second and third vessels in March and August 2025, respectively. “Pakistan Navy’s role in the region is to ensure maritime security and the free flow of trade,” he said. “The new submarines will significantly contribute to that in the coming days.”
Turning to economic horizons, the Vice Admiral pinned high hopes on Gwadar Port’s full operationalization, a cornerstone of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). “Gwadar is at such a strategic location that it will help significantly in transshipment and seaborne trade. A fully functional Gwadar Port will present us with huge economic opportunities in the future,” he remarked, stressing efficient turnaround times and capacity for larger vessels akin to Karachi’s deep-water terminal.
He also addressed infrastructure needs, praising the Karachi Shipyard’s strong PIMEC presence while acknowledging its limitations due to its age. “The world has moved on. Shipyards today are huge. We are also trying to build a shipyard on those lines in Gwadar. We hope to progress there. There was also a discussion about building a shipyard in Port Qasim. So yes, I think we need to have more shipyards—and the sooner the better.”
PIMEC-25 not only stimulates the maritime sector but also highlights lesser-known industries, promoting sustainable growth through fisheries, hydrocarbons, and eco-tourism. As Pakistan navigates a complex geo-strategic landscape, the Navy’s commitment to security and economic vitality remains steadfast, positioning the nation as a key player in regional trade and stability.
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