ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Navy has concluded a large-scale, two-day defence exercise aimed at countering sub-conventional and asymmetric threats across key maritime installations, particularly ports and harbours. The drills were held in and around Karachi Harbour and involved coordinated operations by the Pakistan Navy Fleet, Marines, Special Service Group (Navy), and Naval Aviation.
This critical exercise took place amid heightened regional tensions following a recent exchange of military hostilities between Pakistan and India. Although a ceasefire has since been declared, the Navy’s latest operational drills underline the country’s emphasis on readiness and maritime defence.
Realistic Scenarios to Sharpen Defence Tactics
According to Commodore Ahmed Hussain, Director General of Public Relations for the Navy, the exercises were designed to validate and refine operational tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) against evolving asymmetric threats, including sabotage, infiltration, and unconventional attacks.
The comprehensive training included real-time simulations to enhance rapid response capabilities, situational awareness, and inter-agency coordination. Rear Admiral Faisal Amin, Commander Coast (Comcoast), visited multiple operational stations to oversee the exercises, praising the high degree of professionalism and preparedness demonstrated by the personnel.
“The secure functioning of our ports is directly tied to Pakistan’s economic security,” Admiral Amin emphasized, calling maritime safety a cornerstone of national stability.
Response to Regional Security Environment
The timing of the exercise follows four days of clashes between Pakistan and India, involving drones, artillery, and air strikes. The conflict was triggered by an April 22 attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 people. India blamed cross-border elements without evidence, a claim Pakistan strongly denied, calling instead for a neutral investigation.
Though the ceasefire took effect on May 10, both nations remain in a cautious posture. A senior Pakistani military official told Reuters that troop levels at the border are expected to be scaled down soon.
The Pakistan Navy reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining operational readiness to defend the country’s maritime interests against any emerging threat.
