Pakistan Navy’s commitment to regional maritime security and stability is a cornerstone of its operations. As part of this commitment, the Pakistan Navy regularly deploys its assets on Regional Maritime Security Patrol (RMSP), which has become a permanent feature of its maritime strategy. This deployment not only ensures the safety and security of Pakistan’s maritime borders but also provides opportunities for strengthening bilateral engagements, enhancing interoperability, and fostering cooperation with other navies.
Recently, Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) Zulfiquar was deployed on the RMSP. One notable example of the Pakistan Navy’s RMSP efforts could be seen in humanitarian assistance provided by PNS to an Iranian Fishing Dhow. During its deployment, PNS Zulfiquar rescued an Iranian Fishing Dhow, Al Muhammadi, with 23 fishermen on board. The ship was stranded over 1,200 nautical miles from its home port, and the PNS Zulfiquar promptly responded to its distress call. The medical and technical teams provided first aid to the injured fisherman and repaired the boat’s engine, demonstrating the Pakistan Navy’s commitment to the safety and security of seafarers in the Indian Ocean Region.
The Pakistan Navy’s RMSP deployment also provides opportunities for strengthening ties with other navies. During its deployment, PNS ZULFIQUAR visited Port Djibouti, where it was received by officials of the Djibouti Navy. The Commanding Officer (CO) of PNS ZULFIQUAR called on senior military leadership and explored avenues for further collaboration. The crew of PNS ZULFIQUAR also had professionally rewarding interactions with the Djibouti Navy and Coast Guards, highlighting the strong ties between the two navies.
The visit of PNS Ship to Port Djibouti was also marked by a Passage Exercise with the Djibouti Coast Guards, aimed at enhancing interoperability between the two forces.
Building on the Pakistan Navy’s commitment to the regional maritime security, PNS ZULFIQUAR conducted another Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Republic of Korea Navy Ship Wang Geon in the North Arabian Sea during its deployment on RMSP. This joint exercise was a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral ties between the two navies.
Both ships operated under the task forces of Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), CTF-150 and CTF-151, respectively. The exercise involved tactical maneuvers and communication drills, aimed at enhancing operational interoperability and fostering professional ties.
The successful conduct of this joint exercise underscores the commitment of both navies and their respective task forces to upholding maritime security, supporting lawful activities at sea, and promoting stability and cooperation in this strategically vital region.
The successful deployment of PNS’s on RMSP displays unwavering resolve to ensuring maritime security and stability in the region. Through RMSP, the Pakistan Navy not only safeguards national interests but also contributes significantly to regional peace and security. The humanitarian assistance provided to the stranded fishermen and the conduct of Passage Exercises with foreign navies have further reinforced the Pakistan Navy’s role as a responsible and reliable partner in promoting maritime cooperation and stability.
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