KARACHI: Pakistan Navy extends a warm welcome to People’s Liberation Army (Navy) Ship DAQING for its participation in the 4th iteration of bilateral exercise SEA GUARDIAN, scheduled from 25 March to 2 April 2026. Upon arrival, PLA(N) Ship DAQING was accorded a ceremonial welcome and escorted into port by Pakistan Navy ships with traditional zeal.
The SEA GUARDIAN exercise aims to further strengthen bilateral relations through the mutual exchange of maritime expertise and enhanced interoperability between the two friendly navies, reflecting their shared commitment to regional peace. The exercise will feature a range of harbour and sea-phase activities, including subject matter expert engagements, a young officers’ seminar on contemporary topics, gunnery firings, coordinated patrols, and other maritime security operations.
The SEA GUARDIAN series of exercises reflects the strong bond and shared commitment of Pakistan and China to regional peace and stability. It is expected to further enhance their strategic partnership and contribute to a stable maritime environment in the region.
Pakistan Navy launches Operation Muhafizul Bahr to safeguard maritime trade: ISPR
Earlier on March 9, Pakistan Navy has launched operation ‘Muhafizul Bahr to safeguard maritime trade in view of rising regional conflict.
According to the statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), in view of the evolving regional maritime security environment and potential disruptions to critical sea lanes, the Pakistan Navy has launched Operation Muhafiz-ul-Bahr to counter multidimensional threats to national shipping and maritime trade. The initiative has been undertaken to ensure the uninterrupted flow of national energy supplies and the security of Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs).
PN Escort operations are being conducted in close coordination with Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC). Pakistan Navy is fully cognizant of the prevailing maritime situation and is actively monitoring and controlling the movement of merchant vessels to ensure their safe and secure transit.
With approximately 90% of Pakistan’s trade conducted via sea, the operation aims to ensure that vital sea routes remain safe, secure, and uninterrupted. Currently, PN ships are escorting 2 x Merchant Vessels, one of which is scheduled to arrive Karachi today.
Pakistan Navy remains fully prepared to respond to emerging maritime security challenges and is committed to ensuring the safety of national shipping and regional maritime security.
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