Pak-Saudi joint naval exercises from today

Navies of the present day world are increasingly focused on policing roles and sharing of resources for maritime security operations against asymmetric threats viz contemporary challenges like terrorism, piracy, narcotics, arms and human smuggling which have greatly impacted the maritime environment.

Pakistan Navy is engaged in Maritime Security Operations in the vital region of North Arabian Sea which enhances national and global economy through maintenance of legitimate maritime order at sea. Pakistan Navy’s outreach to regional and global navies in respect of defence collaboration is a potent mean to advance nation’s foreign office policy objectives.

Aiming to provide formal opportunity for both Pakistan Navy and Royal

Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) to enhance interoperability & tactical proficiency, practice and improve tactics related to Anti Submarine warfare, Anti Surface Warfare, Anti Air Warfare and Air operations, develop common tactics against asymmetric, air, surface, sub-surface and mine threats including defense of port infrastructure, demonstrate MCM capabilities, share and refine the tactical doctrines and to conduct Live Weapon Firing, the biennial conduct of Joint PN – RSNF Naval Exercise Naseem AL BAHR series was evolved.

Since its institution in 1993, the Exercise has matured into an advanced level maritime exercise. The 10th exercise of this series; to be held from 12 – 22 Jan 13 in Pakistani waters, will involve participation of State Of The Art Sea and Air platforms besides Special Forces.

The tempo of the Exercise will be developed progressively, with seminars followed by tactical games during Harbour Phase. Thereafter, sea Phase will be conducted for tactical & operational training workup including Live Weapon Firings at Sea. Side by side, Pakistani and RSNF Special Operating Forces (SOFs) and Marines will also be conducting Joint exercises.

The conduct of Joint Exercise between Pakistan Navy and RSNF in the present geo-political situation, has added significance and it is considered that this will go a long way in enhancing the brotherly relations between the two countries.