Pakistan and China launch major naval drills in North Arabian Sea

WEB DESK: The fourth iteration of the joint naval exercise between Pakistan and China, SEA GUARDIAN-IV, has officially commenced in the North Arabian Sea.

The week-long maritime drills, which began on 25 March, represent a significant expansion of the “all-weather” strategic partnership between the two nations, focusing on high-end naval coordination and regional maritime security.

The exercise opened with the arrival of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (Navy) guided-missile frigate Daqing at Karachi port, where it was received by senior officials of the Pakistan Navy with a formal guard of honour.

Strengthening interoperability and maritime defence

The current drills are designed to enhance the tactical proficiency of both navies through a series of complex manoeuvres and professional exchanges. Divided into distinct harbour and sea phases, the exercise includes academic seminars and expert-level dialogues aimed at synchronising operational doctrines.

During the sea phase, the two navies will conduct intensive live-fire drills, anti-submarine warfare simulations, and coordinated patrols.

These manoeuvres are intended to demonstrate a shared commitment to safeguarding vital sea lanes and maintaining stability in the Indian Ocean region.

This fourth edition of the Sea Guardian series underscores the increasing sophistication of bilateral military cooperation, moving beyond traditional drills toward integrated, large-scale maritime operations.