Pakistan Navy Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf recently visited the forward posts located near Sir-Creek and Jiwani, Pakistan’s disputed maritime zone. Let us tell you that the purpose of this tour is believed to be to demonstrate Pakistan’s military preparedness and its steadfast position on the Sir Creek dispute. Addressing the officers and men, Admiral Ashraf said his country will “defend every inch of its maritime domain from Sari Creek to Jiwani” and the visit is part of this strategic message.
According to available information, during this visit, Pakistan Navy has inducted three state-of-the-art 2400 TD hovercraft into Pak Marine to strengthen its operational capability. It is noteworthy that these hovercraft are specially designed for operations in difficult and marshy terrain, shallow water and sandy shores, which prove challenging for conventional naval ships. The Navy Chief has described the induction of these new equipment as a symbol of the country’s maritime security and strategic alertness.
Admiral Ashraf said that maritime security is not just a military necessity but an important basis of national sovereignty and economic stability. He also clarified that Pakistan Navy plays a leading role in maintaining peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region and this new hovercraft will play a decisive role for coastal security.
However, Indian intelligence sources believe that Admiral Ashraf’s visit is an “attempt to show military dominance in disputed maritime areas”. Additionally, according to Indian intelligence assessments, such military activities are also aimed at giving international prominence to Pakistan’s Sarai Creek dispute and also to send a deterrent message towards India’s increasing naval activities.
It is noteworthy that the new 2400 TD hovercraft operated by the Pakistan Navy are primarily defensive and are suitable for patrolling and surveillance in marshy and shallow water areas. But experts say that this step also has a big geopolitical impact. It will also prove helpful in promoting China’s strategic partnership and naval-related cooperation under the Pakistan-China Economic Corridor (CPEC). Thus, Pakistan’s latest naval moves are not just defensive but also empowering regional and international strategy.