Admiral Naveed Ashraf officially took over as the 23rd naval chief on Saturday, succeeding Admiral Amjad Khan Niazi, who retired.
The transition occurred during a ceremony at Pakistan Naval Headquarters in Islamabad, where Admiral Niazi handed over command of the Pakistan Navy to Admiral Ashraf.
In his farewell address, Admiral Niazi congratulated Admiral Naveed Ashraf on assuming command, praising his distinguished career and notable achievements. He expressed confidence in Admiral Ashraf's leadership, expecting him to guide the Navy to new heights.
Admiral Niazi emphasized the strength and significance of the Pakistan Navy as a crucial component of the country's armed forces, capable of safeguarding maritime frontiers.
Admiral Ashraf boasts an illustrious career, having previously held positions such as Commander Pakistan Fleet, Naval Secretary, Vice President of the National Defence University, and Deputy Chief of Naval Staff at Naval Headquarters. He was commissioned in the Operations Branch of the Pakistan Navy in 1989 and has served in various key roles, including Commanding Officer of several naval vessels, Commandant of the Pakistan Naval Academy, and Commander of Destroyer Squadrons in the Pakistan Navy Fleet.
He has also held staff positions, including Fleet Operations Officer, Captain Training, Deputy President of the National Defence University, and Director of Maritime Affairs and Environmental Control. Additionally, he served as Chief Staff Officer to Commander Combined Task Force-151 HQ NAVCENT Bahrain and held other important roles.
Admiral Naveed Ashraf is a graduate of institutions such as the Pakistan Navy War College Lahore, National Defence University Islamabad, Naval Staff College USA, and Royal College of Defence Studies UK.
In recognition of his outstanding service, Admiral Ashraf has been honored with the Hilal-i-Imtiaz (Military) and Tamgha-e-Basalat awards.
