9th Multinational Maritime Exercise AMAN-25 & First AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference Conducted in Karachi
The Indian Ocean Region (IOR), in particular, faces complex challenges such as maritime terrorism, drug and human trafficking, and piracy. To effectively counter these threats, enhanced cooperation between international navies is essential. As a key stakeholder and advocate of collaborative maritime security in the IOR, Pakistan is fully aware of its responsibilities and plays an active role in ensuring peace and stability at sea.
With over 90% of its total trade volume dependent on maritime routes, Pakistan’s national economy and security are deeply linked to maritime security, reinforcing the country's commitment to safeguarding regional stability.
Considered as the most significant initiative of the Pakistan Navy (PN) in the field of maritime diplomacy, the AMAN series of multinational maritime exercises are among the key initiatives of Pakistan for reinforcing regional peace and stability. The multinational naval exercises provide a platform for participating navies to exchange experience and knowledge on diverse issues such as counterterrorism, humanitarian assistance, and maritime security operations. They play a pivotal role against regional threats, not for just the participating countries but for the extra-regional countries as well. Over the years, the Exercise has grown both in terms of participation and scope, reflecting the increasing importance of collaborative efforts in maintaining safe and secure seas. In Pakistan’s national language Urdu AMAN means ‘PEACE’ and the slogan/motto of AMAN Exercise is ‘Together for Peace’. The concept of the Exercise was designed to provide a common forum for information sharing, mutual understanding and identifying areas of common interest.
The Pakistan Navy (PN) has been hosting the Multinational Maritime Exercise AMAN biennially since March 2007. Exercise AMAN brings together Ships, Aircraft, SOF/EOD Teams and Observers from the Navies of East and West under one umbrella for collaborative peace and security in the maritime domain. With Exercise AMAN, the PN seeks to enhance interoperability between regional and extra regional navies as a means of promoting peace and stability in the region and beyond. Besides its function as an opportunity to gather the international maritime community to one platform to promote peace and stability, Exercise AMAN also provides a unique training opportunity to develop and practice tactics which help participants foster and sustain the mutual relationships that are conductive for ensuring safe and secured sea lanes on the world’s oceans.
The AMAN series has been a hallmark of the Pakistan Navy’s efforts to promote regional peace and cooperation. Launched in March 2007, the inaugural exercise saw the participation of 28 countries. By 2023, the number of participating nations had grown to 50, including major naval powers. The AMAN Exercises are structured to create Responses, Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (RTTPs) against nontraditional threats through tactical warfare planning followed by high-end warfare serials at sea such as Naval Gunfire, Visit, Board, Search & Seizure (VBSS), Anti-piracy, Operations, Combine Anti-Submarine Exercise, Communications, Boarding and Air Defense.
The AMAN Exercises are planned with focused objectives, which are as follows:
Develop coalition building and multi-layered security cooperation to promote a safe & sustainable maritime environment.
Enhance tactical interoperability between regional and extra regional navies thereby acting as a bridge between the regions.
Validating RTTPs to counter non-traditional threats in the maritime domain.
Project a positive image of Pakistan as a country contributing towards regional peace and stability.
Consolidate the PN's position in the regional maritime arena.
Display of united resolve against terrorism and crimes in the maritime domain.
Intermingling of multinationals with depiction of their respective cultures.
Since 2007 a total of 9 AMAN Exercises have been planned, but since in 2015, AMAN-15 was not held due to some operational commitment of the PN, only 8 of them have been executed including Exercise AMAN-23.
In order to give wide media coverage to the AMAN series of multinational maritime exercises, Pakistan Navy has been inviting journalists from international media outlets and defense and aerospace sector magazines, including DEFENCE TURKEY. The 9th Multinational Maritime Exercise AMAN-25 was DEFENCE TURKEY Magazine's third participation in the AMAN series of exercises, following AMAN-19 and AMAN-23. We extend our gratitude to the Pakistan Navy Naval Directorate of Public Relations (DGPR) for providing us with this opportunity.
The 6th edition of AMAN series of exercises, AMAN 2019 (AMAN-19) was conducted during 08-12 February in Karachi and North Arabian Sea. Navies of 83 countries were invited to participate and 45 Navies (46 with Pakistan) participated through Ships (a total of 21 ships from 10 Navies including PN and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency/PMSA), Aircraft (11 fixed wing and 13 rotary wing aircraft took part at Fly Past), Special Operation Forces (SOF, including 6 SOF Teams, 5 Explosives Ordnance Disposal [EOD] Teams and 4 Marines Teams from 11 countries), Observers and Speakers.
Conducted from 10 to 14 February 2023 in Karachi and North Arabian Sea, the 8th edition of AMAN series of multinational maritime exercises, AMAN 2023 (AMAN-23), witnessed the participation of 50 Navies through War Ships (a total of 20 ships from 8 Navies including PN and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency/PMSA), Aircraft (12 fixed wing and 7 rotary wing aircraft took part at Fly Past), Special Operation Forces (SOF, including 4 SOF Teams, 6 Explosives Ordnance Disposal [EOD] Teams and 5 Marines Teams), Observers (123 Observers from 50 countries), Ambassadors (from 5 countries), Deputy High Commissions (from 6 countries), Defense Attachés (from 35 countries) and Speakers.
Exercise
AMAN-25
The ninth and to date largest edition of the biennial AMAN series of multinational maritime exercises, AMAN-2025 (AMAN-25), was conducted during February 07-11, 2025 in Karachi and North Arabian Sea. Navies of 120 countries have been invited to participate and 120 delegations from 60 countries including Pakistan, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the USA and China as well as 60 Navies participated through Ships (a total of 13 ships from 11 Navies including Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, KSA, Malaysia, Oman, Sri Lanka, USA and the UAE), Aircraft, Special Operation Forces (SOF, including Explosives Ordnance Disposal [EOD] Teams and Marines Teams), Observers and Speakers.
Like all previous AMAN Exercises, Exercise AMAN-25 was conducted in two phases: The Harbor Phase and the Sea Phase. The Harbor Phase comprised; the Arrival of Participating Units, the Opening/Flag Hoisting Ceremony (February 7, 2025) at the PN Dockyard, Visit of Foreign Ships (February 8, 2025), Opening Ceremony of AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference (February 9, 2025), International Band Display & Maritime Counter Terrorism Demo by SSG(N)/Pakistan Marines (February 9, 2025), Closing ceremony of AMAN Dialogue (February 10, 2025), and pre-sail planning of evolutions at sea. Whereas the Sea Phase included tactical maneuvers, exercises related to maritime security such as anti-piracy and counter terrorism, search and rescue, gunnery firings and air defence exercises. Highlight of the sea phase was the International Fleet Review (IFR, February 11, 2025), which was witnessed by national and foreign dignitaries.
Serving as a bridge between many regions and navies from across the continents, Exercise AMAN is a clear manifestation of Pakistan’s profound commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region through harmony and collaborative efforts between navies of the world. The participation of such a large number of Eastern and Western Navies in Exercise AMAN is truly a testament that the international community appreciates Pakistan’s sincere efforts for peace and maritime security and that it is willing to join hands with Pakistan for creating greater harmony and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
A key feature of the AMAN-25 was the two-day AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference, where Chiefs of Navies, Coast Guards, and Defense Forces as well as senior leaders and distinguished scholars from around the world were convened to discuss regional maritime security and devise joint strategies to counter evolving maritime threats. Organized for the first time under the aegis of the Pakistan Navy, the AMAN Dialogue-2025 Conference was held by the Pakistan Navy on February 9–10, 2025, as part of the Exercise AMAN-25.
What makes Exercise AMAN-25 and the AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference truly remarkable is their ability to bring together both coastal and landlocked countries under one roof. Alongside diverse naval powers—including China, NATO member states, the United States, Iran, and Russia— many landlocked nations, including Belarus, Brundi, Czech Republic, Kazakhstan, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Uganda and Zimbabwe, also participated in these events. The maritime domain impacts both coastal and landlocked nations alike. For coastal or maritime nations, the sea is directly tied to their livelihoods through activities like fishing, shipping, and resource exploitation—as seen in countries like the Maldives and Sri Lanka. However, for landlocked or land-linked nations, trade and commerce heavily rely on maritime transport routes. No country can be detached from the maritime sphere, and the sooner this interconnectedness is acknowledged, the better.
The inaugural AMAN Dialogue-2025 Conference provided a high-level platform to address pressing maritime challenges under the theme “Secure Seas – Prosperous Future.” Building on the International Maritime Conference (IMC, conducted during 2007-2023 alongside AMAN series of multinational maritime exercises) foundation the AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference provided more focused and high-level (included particularly the top decision-makers from the participating navies) plaform for strategic discussions on maritime security, economic prospeperity, and environmental stability.
A troupe of 6 journalists from international media outlets and defense and aerospace sector magazines including DEFENCE TURKEY, courtesy of the Naval Directorate of Public Relations, were invited from Indonesia (1x), Iran (1x), Malaysia (1x), South Africa (1x), Sri Lanka (1x) and Türkiye (1x) and hosted in Karachi to follow AMAN-25. Exercise is also followed by around 30 local and international journalists based in both Karachi and Islamabad, including Anatolian Agency, TASS and Al-Jazeera.
Türkiye and the AMAN-25 Multinational Maritime Exercise
The Turkish Naval Forces Command has previously participated in the AMAN Multinational Maritime Exercises in 2007, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2017, 2019, and 2021. In AMAN-19, Türkiye participated with the TCG Gökçeada Frigate, along with a SAS Team (deployed on the TCG Gökçeada frigate), a Multinational Maritime Security Mobile Training Team (consisting of four SAT personnel and six Amphibious Assault Team personnel, who arrived in Karachi by air), and a headquarters officer. For AMAN 2021, the Turkish Naval Forces contributed two Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPAs), one SAS (Underwater Defense) Team, and one SAT (Underwater Assault) Team.
Türkiye had planned to participate in the AMAN-23 Multinational Maritime Exercise with one Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA), one SAT (Underwater Assault) Team, and one SAS (Underwater Defense) Team. However, due to the devastating earthquakes that struck Türkiye’s southern region and northern Syria on February 6, 2023—measuring M7.8 and M7.5, occurring nine hours apart along different fault lines, the participation was canceled at the last minute.
Turkish Navy particapated at the Exercise AMAN-25, with a total of 23 personnel including 1 SAT Team, 1 SAS Team and crew of C-72 (ATR-72/600) Turkish Maritime Utility Aircraft (TMUA) from the 301st Naval Air Squadron of the Turkish Naval Aviation Command. The aircraft, along with Turkish Naval Forces personnel, arrived in Karachi on February 6 and was welcomed with an official ceremony.
In return, the Pakistan Navy had participated in the Mavi Balina (Blue Whale) Naval Exercise, held in November 2024, with an ATR-72/500 Maritime Patrol Aircraft from the 29th Anti-Submarine Warfare Squadron, also known as the RAS 72 Sea Eagle.
Opening Ceremony at PN Dockyard
The 9th and the largest ever edition of the AMAN series of multinational maritime exercises, AMAN 2025 (AMAN-25), which is held every two years, kicked off with a remarkable Flags Hoisting Ceremony at Pakistan Navy Dockyard (PN Dockyard) in Karachi on February 7, 2025. The ceremony was attended by a large number of senior military officials from 60 participating nations (including Türkiye), observers, foreign diplomats and a large number of Pakistan Navy personnel. Commander of the Pakistan Fleet, Rear Admiral Abdul MUNIB graced the occasion as Chief Guest.
As the ceremony began, the flag squad of the PN presented a march-past on the tune for the national song ‘Iss Parcham Ke Saye Talay Hum Aik Hain (Unity Song)’ with every officer holding a neatly folded flag of each of the 60 participating countries in the AMAN-25 Exercise. The representatives of each of the countries - Australia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Brazil, Brunei, Burundi, Cambodia, Canada, China, Comoros, Czech Republic, Djibouti, Egypt, Fiji, France, Germany, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), Kuwait, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Morocco, Myanmar, Netherland, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Philippines, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Seychelles, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tunisia, Türkiye, UAE, Uganda, UK, USA and Zimbabwe, then took their positions in front of their respective flagpoles. The flags of participating countries were hoisted with the playing of Pakistan’s national anthem as all personnel in uniform saluted and the guests stood up in respect.
At the ceremony Türkiye was represented by Captain Emre Ahmet İNAL, Commander of Operation from Dalaman Naval Air Command, who is also leading the Turkish Naval Forces personnel participating at AMAN-25.
As one of the flagship biennial events of the Pakistan Navy to express its commitment to make the sea safer for positive human activities and at the same time invite regional and extra-regional navies the AMAN-25 is being conducted from February 7 to 11 in Karachi and North Arabian Sea. Navies of 120 countries have been invited to participate and 60 Navies participated through Ships (a total of 13 ships from 11 Navies including Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, KSA, Malaysia, Oman, Sri Lanka, USA and the UAE), Aircraft, Special Operation Forces (SOF, including Explosives Ordnance Disposal [EOD] Teams and Marines Teams), Observers and Speakers.
During the ceremony, the Message of Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) of the Pakistan Navy, Admiral Naveed ASHRAF was also read out by Commander of the 9th Auxiliary & Mine Warfare Squadron (COMAUXMIN-9) Commodore Omar FAROOQ. In his message, the CNS Adm. ASHRAF warmly welcomed the participants of the AMAN-25 Exercise. The Admiral stressed that today, Exercise AMAN has become a regular biennial feature involving regional and extra-regional navies in a bid to create a secure and conductive maritime environment. He further underlined that as a key stakeholder in the Arabian Sea, the Pakistan Navy has undertaken multiple initiatives to shore up regional maritime security. “Regional Maritime Security Patrol (RMSP) is one such undertaking by Pakistan Navy, to live upto its international obligations as well as safeguard it's own national interests in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Today’s maritime landscape presents a myriad of challenges, including terrorism, piracy, drugs & human trafficking, issues that transcend borders and require a unified response. Hence, closer cooperation among navies is vital for building resilient and reliable frameworks against the evolving threats. Encouraged by the trust reposed by international community on our efforts in promoting peace and order at Sea, Pakistan Navy has decided to institute AMAN Dialogue as an adjunct to Exercise AMAN. This will enable Chiefs of Navies/Coast Guards/Defence Forces and renowned maritime academia to share perspectives and adopt innovative solutions to the emerging maritime challenges,” Admiral ASHRAF stated in his message.
Delivering inaugural speech of the ceremony, Commander Pakistan Fleet, Rear Admiral Abdul MUNIB extended a warm welcome to all the participants and thanked them for their wholehearted participation in the exercise. The Commander Pakistan Fleet highlighted that with the evolving global landscape shifting from geo-politics to geo-economics, the security of global sea-borne trade and energy routes has gained unprecedented importance. The Indian Ocean Region (IOR) faces a range of challenges, from traditional security threats to non-traditional risks. These multifaceted issues have broadened the scope of maritime security, compelling nations to re-evaluate their strategies and policies. At his address Rear Admiral MUNIB emphasized that presence of friends, who have sailed and flown from various parts of the globe to join Pakistan Navy in the AMAN-25 and maiden AMAN Dialogue, is an indicative of their common resolve to promote collaboration and maintain good order at sea for protection of global commons. “Today’s maritime environment is marred with traditional and non-traditional challenges which require collaborative response from likeminded navies.
He stated that Pakistan recognizes that no single country can address the complex challenges at sea alone. In this context, Pakistan Navy took the initiative to launch biennial Multinational Exercise AMAN in 2007 under the slogan “Together for Peace.”
The primary objective of this Exercise is to bring maritime nations together to adopt safe and sustainable procedures, share experiences, and collectively address maritime threats. Over the years, Exercise AMAN has evolved in terms of its objectives and scope. The first AMAN Exercise, which primarily focused on counterterrorism and anti-piracy operations, was attended by 28 countries. Over time, the scope and participation of the exercise expanded, ultimately paving the way for doctrinal synergy to counter emerging maritime challenges.
Commander Pakistan Fleet also emphasized that the growing global participation in Exercise AMAN reflects the international community’s confidence in Pakistan Navy’s role in collaborative maritime security. This confidence has led to yet another milestone, the introduction of the maiden AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference, which is conducted alongside Exercise AMAN-25.
Rear Admiral MUNIB further added that Exercise AMAN-25 would play a vital role in enhancing maritime security and strengthening Pakistan’s position as a key maritime player, capable of contributing to regional and global peace and shared prosperity while safeguarding its Sea Lines of Communication (SLOC) and economic interests.
Following the inaugural speech by Rear Admiral MUNIB, representatives of the participating 60 countries have formed up in front of flags for a group photo. Then they formed up in Media Enclosure for Cake Cutting ceremony. The Ex AMAN-25 official opening ceremony ended with a group photo session.
AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference
The official opening ceremony (Inaugural Session) of the two-day AMAN Dialogue 2025 International Maritime Security Conference, which was conducted alongside Exercise AMAN-25 during February 9-10, 2025 at the Pakistan Naval Academy (PNS Rahbar) located in Manora, Karachi and brought together Chiefs of Navies, Coast Guards, and Defense Forces as well as senior leaders and distinguished scholars from around the world, with an aim to unite global leaders and experts to translate strategic insight and perspective into actionable solutions.
In the biennial AMAN series of multinational maritime exercises, the Harbour Phase has included an International Maritime Conference (IMC) since 2007, alongside other activities. However, as this hybrid conference of academics and policymakers was not sufficient to project a comprehensive narrative, and the last IMC—held in conjunction with the ‘Pakistan International Maritime Expo & Conference (PIMEC)’ at the Karachi Expo Center under the theme “Adapting to the Challenges and Opportunities of the Blue Economy for Developing Countries”—saw limited participation from top decision-makers from both Pakistan and the participating navies/nations, the Pakistan Navy has announced the inauguration of a two-day AMAN Dialogue to replace the IMC this year.
The Pakistan Navy decided to organize the two-day AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference to enable Chiefs of Navies, Coast Guards, Defense Forces and Academia, to provide them an opportunity to exchange views on global and regional security issues and adopt innovative solutions to emerging maritime/security challenges in the Indian Ocean. These include strategic competition, piracy, narco-trafficking, non-state actors, resource exploitation, climate change, impact of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and unmanned systems on maritime security, the blue economy and the need for global collaboration to ensure stability and prosperity.
Bringing together speakers from both developed and emerging nations to discuss emerging maritime/security challenges in the Indian Ocean is a very smart approach. The topic of impact of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and unmanned systems on maritime security was quite striking. AMAN Dialogue 2025 might be one of the first platforms in the defense sector to bring up this topic. AI and emerging technologies are usually not discussed in depth within the defense sector, but at the AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference, participants from different countries shared their unique perspectives, adding a new dimension to the discussion. AI has its benefits as well as its unknown challenges, which makes it a crucial topic for debate. Over the next two years, AI and technology will advance even further, bringing both new opportunities and new threats.
The introduction of AMAN Dialogue Conference alongside AMAN Exercise in 2025 reflects a strategic expansion to address the increasingly complex and dynamic nature of global maritime securuty challenges. While the AMAN-25 Exercise focused on operational cooperation, the AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference offered a platform centered on practitioner centric high-level exchanges on broader issues like piracy, environmental protection and emergng threats such as cyber security. It further strengthened diplomatic and policy coorination between participating nations/navies and promoted long-term partnerships.
Co-hosted by the Pakistan Navy and the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA), premier maritime-related think tank of Pakistan, which undertakes analysis and evaluation of National and International Maritime issues and policies in order to recommend solutions to advance the maritime interest of the country, the two-day AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference was held at under the overarching theme, “Secure Seas – Prosperous Future.” It featured multiple panel discussions and deliberations by Chiefs of Navies and heads of delegations on a wide range of topics. In the seven sessions at the AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference following topics were discussed:
Maritime Security in Indian Ocean: Threats & Challenges
Perspectives on Maritime Security & Cooperation
Maritime Cooperation
Blue Economy
Emerging Technologies (Artificial Intelligence and Unmanned Systems) – Challenges and Opportunities
The Impact of Emerging Technologies on Maritime Security
Conducted as an adjunct to Exercise AMAN-25, the AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference provided an exclusive platform for global naval leadership, supported by renowned academia, to devise strategies for a secure maritime future.
On the sidelines of the AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) of the Pakistan Navy, Admiral Naveed ASHRAF, held interactive meetings with Heads of Navies and Coast Guards attending the event. These discussions focused on contemporary maritime issues, mutual interests, and prospects for enhanced maritime collaboration. At the AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference, the inclusion of top decision-makers from the participating navies and nations, along with the provision of spaces for bilateral meetings, created opportunities for practical cooperation. This collaboration extended beyond traditional security concerns, encompassing the broader spectrum of the blue economy as well.
The Inaugural Session of the AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference was attended by the Pakistan Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad ASIF, as the Chief Guest. Senator Mushahid Hussain SYED, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) of the Pakistan Navy, Admiral Naveed ASHRAF, Vice Admiral Stefano BARBIERI, Advisor of Chief of Italian Navy, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy Vice Admiral Angus TOPSHEE, Major General İbrahim HILMY Chief of Maldives Defense Force, Commander of the Iraqi Navy Vice Admiral Mazin Abdul Wahid KABYAN, Commander of Royal Navy of Oman (RNO) Rear Admiral Saif Bin Naseer Bin Al RAHBI, Commander of Iranian Navy Rear Admiral Shahram IRANI, Deputy Chief of Staff Qatar Armed Forces Maj. Gen. Sheyaq Bin Misfir Al Shahwani Al HARI, DG Border Guard KSA Maj. Gen. Shaya Bin Salim Al WADAANI, Commander of Primorsky Fleet Rear Admiral A. Y. SYSUEV and Commander of Royal Jordanian Naval Forces Col. Hisam Khaleel Al JARRAH were also among the high-ranking participants of the event.
Delivering a welcome address during the Inaugural Session of the AMAN Dialogue 2025 on February 9, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) of the Pakistan Navy, Admiral Naveed ASHRAF, praised maritime leaders, professionals and academia from around the globe for joining them in pursuit of their shared objective of forging closer international collaboration for reinforcing peace and security in the maritime arena. Admiral ASHRAF underscored that through AMAN series of multinational maritime exercises, Pakistan Navy has continued to foster trust, enhance interoperability and streamline practices and procedures among the partner neighbors. “Simultaneously, through AMAN Dialogue 2025, we acknowledge the need to engage in pragmatic and practitioner-centric discussions with racial and extra-regional stakeholders to arrive at shared understanding and a collective approach to maritime security in the region,” Admiral ASHRAF said. At his address Admiral ASHRAF highlighted that with AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference they aim to unite global leaders and experts to translate strategic foresight and unique perspectives into actionable solutions. “This intellectual discourse is designed to help us discern security issues gripping the navies in the region. Identify avenues of collaboration, pool resources where possible and culminate into a cohesive and efficient cooperative mechanism,” Adm. ASHRAF added.
To underscore the Pakistan Navy's perspective that they see the Indian Ocean not as a battleground of competition between countries, but as a shared space where cooperation is key, Adm. ASHRAF stated that Pakistan Navy envision the Indian Ocean region not as an arena of competition but as a common avenue for cooperation and voiced the Pakistan Navy belief that the magnitude and diversity of evolving threats and challenges are such that no country has the way with them to tackle them alone. “Hence, collaborative maritime security has become an imperative for ensuring robust maritime security, especially in regions like ours with dense trade and economic activity as well as multiple and diverse stakeholders. Our dream of prosper future also entails socio-economic uplift and development of the blue economy. The first recorded maritime trade occurred right here in the very region between the Indus Valley and Mesopotamia around 4,500 years ago,” Adm. ASHRAF said. He further added that the challenges of maritime domain are substantial and interconnected and we are nearing global ramifications.
He also expressed hope that the AMAN Dialogue will act as bridge between East and West, and to provide them an opportunity to engage especially with countries holding strategic vantage points in the Indian Ocean such as in proximity of Babal Bandar or Strait of Congress.
Admiral ASHRAF concluded his speech with the following words: “Finally, conduct of AMAN-25 Exercise and AMAN Dialogue 2025 concurrently affords a special advantage of fusion of intellect and synergy on the field. I foresee enriching discussions from diverse perspectives that would lead us to mutually beneficial and forthcoming partnerships.
In his keynote address, Pakistan Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad ASIF stressed the importance of collaboration, technological advancement, and sustainable development in securing the future of the maritime domain and stated that the global economic system is almost wholly dependent upon unhindered activity in the maritime domain, “The uninterrupted use of seas and oceans remain the strategic interests of all nations,” he added. At his address, Minister ASIF touched on various aspects of maritime security, international cooperation, and the evolving challenges of the global maritime domain. Here's a summary of the key points:
Globalization and Interconnectivity: Minister ASIF highlighted how, in today's interconnected world, national interests are best served by fostering a peaceful international system based on interdependent networks such as trade, finance, and communication.
The Importance of the Maritime Domain: He also emphasized the strategic importance of oceans, which carry over 80% of global trade, and particularly the Indian Ocean, which is rich in oil and gas reserves. “Our oceans carrying over 80 percent of global trade represent not only shipping lanes but the arteries of global prosperity,” the Minister said. He also highlighted the need for nations to synchronize their efforts to preserve maritime stability and prosperity. He called on countries to synergize their efforts to extract greater economic gains, saying that the maritime domain is at a “critical crossroads.”
Evolving Global Challenges: At his address he acknowledged the current global challenges, including rising tariffs, great power competitions, global crises like climate change and pandemics, and the threats emerging from non-conventional domains (e.g., piracy, terrorism, human smuggling, etc.). The opportunities and tremendous benefits at sea cannot be harnessed if we are not aptly geared against rising challenges,” Minister ASIF said.
Technological Advancements: He also discussed how technological advancements, especially in unmanned systems and AI-powered systems, have transformed warfare and maritime operations. These changes require nations to keep up with rapid technological progress while ensuring that their frameworks remain relevant.
The Role of AMAN Dialogue: Minister ASIF underscored that the AMAN Dialogue is more than just a discussion forum; it is a platform for fostering action, building partnerships, and ensuring peace through collective efforts. “It serves as a catalyst for action, a platform for forging lasting partnerships, building friendships and enduring relationships, all to resonate, to resolve embodies in the motto of AMMAN Exercise, ‘Together for Peace,’”
Minister ASIF concluded his speech with praise for the Pakistan Navy's efforts in organizing the AMAN Dialogue.
In his opening remarks Senator Mushahid Hussain SYED (Former Minister of Information and Broadcasting of Pakistan) encapsulated the importance of maritime security and economic cooperation, particularly in the context of Pakistan’s strategic role in the region and applauded Pakistan Navy's efforts in promoting a collaborative approach to tackle complex maritime security challenges. He also highlighted Pakistan Navy's contributions towards raising awareness about Blue Economy and supporting the socio-economic uplift of coastal communities at the national level. He also underscored the interconnection between maritime diplomacy, security, and the blue economy, which is central to the themes of the AMAN Dialogue.
Senator SYED emphasized that with representatives from 60 countries, the AMAN Dialogue 2025 is the largest-ever international maritime conference in Pakistan’s history. At his speech he also highlighted how the theme and logo of the AMAN Dialogue embody the vision of Pakistan’s founding father, Muhammad Ali JINNAH. He references JINNAH’s desire for "peace within and peace without" for Pakistan, which aligns with the goals of the AMAN Dialogue. He then elaborated on the symbolism of the Conference's logo, which includes elements like the rising sun (representing hope and the dawn of the Asian century), a lighthouse (symbolizing direction), dolphins (for harmony and collaboration), a ship (representing naval power and connectivity), and four stars (linking the Navy, maritime practitioners, academia, and business sectors).
He also noted that 2025 is the 10th anniversary of Pakistan’s expansion of its continental shelf from 200 nautical miles to 350 nautical miles, marking an important step in enhancing the nation's maritime jurisdiction and advancing its blue economy. At his address Senator SYED pointed out that ports are becoming central drivers of global commerce, connectivity, and transformation, emphasizing the importance of maritime infrastructure in shaping the future of global trade and pointed out that the Gwadar Port is a centerpiece of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
International Band Display & Maritime Counter-Terrorism Demo by SSG(N) & Marines
As a part of the AMAN-25 Multinational Maritime Exercise, on February 9, afternoon at PNS QASIM Manora (Marines Base located on Manora Island in Karachi Coast), an International Band display was conducted.
Chief Minister Sindh, Syed Murad Ali SHAH graced the display as the Chief Guest. Pakistan CNS Admiral Naveed ASHRAF and Commander Pakistan Fleet, Rear Admiral Abdul MUNIB were also present on the occasion, which featured performances by Tri-Services bands, Sindh Rangers, and Police, who performed with great enthusiasm. They played a mix of their traditional and military tunes. Alongside Pakistan’s military bands, a military band from Sri Lanka also participated, further enhancing the spirit of camaraderie and cultural exchange. The enchanting melodies mesmerized the audience and were really appreciated.
Following the bands display at evening time Special Operations Forces (SOF) of Pakistan Navy (Special Services Group Navy/SSG[N] & Marines), presented a high-intensity Maritime Counter-Terrorism Demonstration at the coast of Manora Island, located south of the Port of Karachi.
The demonstration was held in the presence of national and international dignitaries, military officials, and delegates from participating navies, as well as local and foreign media representatives. It highlighted precision operations, hostage rescue missions, and frogman operations. The highly synchronized execution of these maneuvers reflected the professionalism and combat readiness of Pakistan Navy in addressing evolving maritime security challenges.
The SSG(N) is a multi-dimensional force with a capability to undertake assignments on Sea, Subsea. Land and Air. Jointly conducted by the Pakistan Navy Marines and Special Services Group (Navy), the Maritime Counter-Terrorism Demonstration began with a great explosion caused by the detonation of an underwater bomb placed in a location close to the shore, by using the water jet technique. Following the great explosion, which at first stage was unsettling, but after that, the massive plume formed on the surface of the water draws significant attention, simulated terrorists landed on the beach by boats and kidnapped a pair of locals. Then Maritime Counter-Terrorism Team commonly known as CTT demonstrated a coordinated beach assault operation to neutralize terrorists’ stronghold and safe house by making air and sea approach and using different techniques of infiltration. In this context, firstly the SSG(N) paratroopers (6x) jumped from a Pakistan Navy Sea King Helicopter from the air and they landed about 200m from the beach by their parachutes. After that they infiltrated the shore with a Special Forces Boat secretly. These jumpers then formed part of Beach Reconnaissance Team for the Counter-Terrorism Demonstration. In the second phase a six-men Air Assault Team was dropped into the sea off the beach by another Sea King Helicopter. They then infiltrated the shore with a Special Forces Boat secretly. Then a sniper, camouflaged with a concealment net, sent a drone to monitor the terrorists’ stronghold and safe house where the hostages were being held from the air. It was followed by the rapid insertion of two six-men Air Assault Teams by a pair of Sea King Helicopters from the air via fast-rope technique.
Once a beachhead was established by the SSG(N) Teams and Marines, coordinated beach assault operation was launched. After a short engagement the SOF Teams & Marines Platoon rescued the hostages. Meanwhile another explosion took place on the sea simulating the demolish of terrorists’ mothership. Following the quick recovery the hostages, SOF Teams & Marines Platoon were extracted of by a Pakistan Navy Marines’ Griffon 8100TD were awaiting it while two more hovercrafts (Griffon Hoverwork 2000TD) waiting near the shore provided protection for them.
Within the scope of the Maritime Counter-Terrorism Demonstration; Dolphin Manoeuvres at a speed of 45 knot by 4 Maritime Tactical Patrol Boats and 2 MRTP15 VBSS boats, Fast Boat Recovery covering fast extraction of an injured SSG(N) SEAL, initially dropped by a PN Sea King helicopter about 200m from the beach from a hostile water with a Sea king Helicopter by fast rope technique, and Demonstration of Bomb Burst Aerial (executed by 3 Sea King helicopters from Pakistan Naval Aviation to present special salute to honour Chief Guest) were also carried out. A special highlight of the Maritime Counter-Terrorism Demonstration was the High-Altitude Free-Fall Jump by Pakistan Navy’s Sea Eagle Team (established in 1991) from a Sea King Helicopter. 5 Jumpers carrying the flags of different countries (including Azerbaijan, China, Jordan, KSA, Türkiye and Pakistan), that participated Exercise AMAN-25, jumped from 10.000 feet and landed at target located at the coast with precise accuracy. This symbolic display underscored the spirit of international cooperation and Pakistan Navy’s commitment to “Together for Peace”—the official motto of Exercise AMAN.
Following the successful landing of 5 SSG(N) jumpers, the leader of the PN Sea Eagle Team Commander Jehanzaib ALI, presented Pakistan flag to Chief Guest.
The counter terrorism demonstrated was a fine display of strength and specialized skills by Special Operations Forces (SOF) of Pakistan Navy to counter acts of maritime terrorism, refine special operating procedures, exchange of professional expertise and to enhance interoperability with participating SOF Teams. SOFs all over the world act as force multipliers in support of conventional forces, engage major or minor missions at broader context thus increasing the effectiveness and efficiency of the regular forces.
At the end of the Maritime Counter-Terrorism Demonstration, we had a short exclusive conversation with Commander of the Pakistan Navy Marines Lt. Cdr. Noman MAJEED and Commander of the Special Services Group of the Pakistan Navy SSG(N) Lt. Cdr. Sardar Zarrar NASIR.
According to Lt. Cdr. Saad IRFAN, SSG(N) Sky Diver, the jumpers opened their parachutes at 4.000ft altitude and from 10.000ft to 4.000ft altitude they descended freely from the skies at a speed of 200ft per second. As per our question he also disclosed that Navy SEALS undergo 9-month training, 4 months for Sea, 3 months for Land and 2 months for Air.
Lt. Cdr. Sardar Zarrar NASIR, on the other hand, emphasised that the Pakistan Navy’s SSG is unique due to its ability to operate across multiple terrains—sea, air, and land. “We function in the air as efficiently as any special force in the world. Our expertise extends to sea, sub-sea, and land operations. Every soldier or officer who completes our training is fully capable of executing these missions,” he added. Lt. Cdr. NASIR also noted that a Navy commando could keep swimming as long as he has life in him. “Our training eliminates the fear of water. As long as a commando can breathe, he will continue swimming,” he said.
Exercise AMAN-25 Concluded with Impressive IFR Session
On February 11, 2025, the 9th Multinational Maritime Exercise AMAN-25, the largest multinational exercise ever hosted by the Pakistan Navy (PN), reached its conclusion with the execution of the impressive International Fleet Review (IFR) at 80nm off the Port of Karachi in the North Arabian Sea in the Pakistan EEZ, which followed by spectacular forming up of AMAN Formation by Pakistan Navy and foreign warships. Chief of the Army Staff, General Asim MUNIR graced the occasion as Chief Guest.
A total of 31 naval vessels, including 2 Agosta 90B Class Submarines (PNS Khalid and PNS Hamza, taking part in IFR session for the first time) and a sailing ship (PNS Rah Naward), along with 16 air units from 12 countries in various displacement and types took part in the IFR Phase of AMAN-25. 11 participating foreign countries joined the IFR session with a total of total of 13 ships including; Bangladesh Navy’s BNSS Omudra Joy, PLA Navy’s Type 052D Class Guided Missile Destroyer PLANS Baotou and a Type 903A replenishment ship PLANS Gaoyouhu, Indonesian Navy’s KRI Bung Tomo, Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF)’s Muraseme Class Destroyer JS Murasame, KSA Navy’s Avante 2200 Class Corvettes HMS Jazan and HMS Hail, Malaysian Navy’s Kedah Class OPV KD Terengganu, Royal Navy of Oman’s Al-Ofouq Class Patrol Vessel RNOV Sadh, Sri Lanka Navy’s HAMILTON Class Cutter SLNS Vijayabahu, US Navy’s Expeditionary Mobile Base Vessel USS Lewis B. Puller, Iranian Navy’s Moudge Class Frigate IRIS Jamaran and UAE Navy’s Abu Dhabi Class (based on Comandanti Class) Corvette (P-191). Pakistan Navy took part in the IFR with 15 ships including the TUGHRIL Class Type 054 A/P Frigates PNS Tippu Sultan and PNS Taimur, Fleet Replenishment & Combat Support Ship PNS Moawin, YARMOOK Batch II Class OPVs PNS Hunain and PNS Yamama and BABUR Class Corvette (PN-MILGEM) PNS Babur.
The IFR also featured an impressive Fly Pas by participating a total of 16 aircraft and helicopters including: 3 x P-3C Orion Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft (LRMPAs, known as ‘Flying Destroyers’), 2 x ATR72/500 LRMPAs, 1 Turkish Navy’s C-72 Maritime Utility Aircraft, 3 x WS-61 Sea King Mk 45 Helicopters, 3 x Z-9EC ASW/ASuW Helicopters (known as Stingray and designed to hunt enemy submarines), and a formation of JF-17A/B Thunder Marinized Fighter Aircraft (2x Block 1 and 2x Block 2 configuration) from the Pakistan Air Force (PAF).
During the IFR PNS Moawin (AOE-39), the Pakistan Navy’s largest Fleet Replenishment & Combat Support Ship constructed at KSEW (Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works) Shipyard, took center stage as it hosted dignitaries, including Governor Sindh, Chief Minister Sindh, Federal Minister of Maritime Affairs, Chief of the Army Staff, General Asim MUNIR and Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Naveed ASHRAF as well as foreign Naval Chiefs, Senior Military Officers, Ambassadors, Defense and Naval Attachés and number of other guests. The IFR phase of the Exercise AMAN-25 was followed by a troupe of 5 journalists from international media outlets and defense and aerospace sector magazines including Defence Turkey, courtesy of the Naval Directorate of Public Relations.
Upon arrival on board Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) Moawin (AOE-39) Fleet Replenishment & Combat Support Ship by a Harbin Z-9E Naval Helicopter, Chief Guest was welcomed by CNS Admiral ASHRAF and Senior Naval officers. During IFR, the Chief Guest and other high-ranking officials on board PNS Moawin witnessed various operational activities including, Replenishment at Sea (RAS), a Joint Counter Piracy Demonstration, Anti-Submarine Rocket Depth Charge (RDC) Firing, Simultaneous fan-out Maneuver by YARMOOK Batch II Class OPVs PNS Hunain and PNS Yamama, Surface Practice Firing on Killer Tomato, Fly Past by Air Units (PN, PAF and foreign participating Aircraft) and Man and Cheer Ship in Honor of the Chief Guest.
At the beginning of the drill PNS Moawin refueled a pair of TUGHRIL Class Type 054 A/P Frigates PNS Tippu Sultan and PNS Taimur while underway. Within the scope of replenishment at sea (RAS) demo, PNS Tippu Sultan (263, on the right side) and PNS Taimur (262, on the left side) took a position on either side of the PNS Moawin. The two receiving ships had hoses sent their way from PNS Moawin through which fuel was supposed to be transferred to them. Underway refueling and replenishment at sea is considered to be one of the most dangerous activities carried out at sea and extreme care was taken by PN personnel during the drill. It was also pointed out that PNS Moawin, built with the cooperation of Türkiye, is the Pakistan Navy’s largest indigenously built ship that was commissioned in October 2018. Under the contracts signed in 2017 and on June 1, 2018. Pakistan has procured a total of four Type 054 A/P Frigates (classified as TUGHRIL Class) from China and the lead ship named PNS Tughril (F-261) was commissioned into PN service at a ceremony held at Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai, China on November 8, 2021. Equipped with state-of-the-art combat management and an electronic warfare system along with modern self-defense capabilities, the Type 054 A/P Frigates are the largest and most advanced warships China has ever exported.
The RAS demonstration was followed by the Joint Counter Piracy Demo (with the participation of PNS Tippu Sultan, PN Sea King Helicopter and boats) by Special Operation Forces (SOF) of Pakistan and friendly countries and Simultaneous Rocket Depth Charge (RDC) Firing from both PNS Tippu Sultan and PNS Taimur Frigates at simulated submarine targets. The RDC is a short-range weapon used against all types of submarines. The main purpose of RDC firing is to herald the enemy submarine and gain valuable time to launch a more lethal and accurate attack with shipborne torpedoes. Both frigates then maneuvered themselves to align behind each other to look like they were just one ship from behind. Main gun firing on a floating surface target called Killer Tomato (equipped with radar reflectors) was carried out by PNS Tippu Sultan and PNS Taimur, Type 052D Class Guided Missile Destroyer PLANS Baotou and Malaysian Navy’s Kedah Class OPV KD Terengganu. While the ships that would take place in Surface Practice Firing on Killer Tomato at given pre-deployed floating surface targets were taking their positions ahead of PNS Moawin for the firing run, YARMOOK Batch II Class OPVs PNS Hunain and PNS Yamama approached the beam of PNS Moawin at high speed simultaneously and then performed a fan-out maneuver to the starboard and portside respectively at high speed. Then a Fly Past was presented by the PN, PAF and a C-72 (ATR-72/600) aircraft from Turkish Navy, which was followed by Men and Cheership by the participating ships in honor of the Chief Guest. Thereafter, the participating ships formed up in traditional “AMAN Formation” to signify unity and harmony to ensure PEACE in maritime domain.
The Chief Guest congratulated Pakistan Navy for successfully hosting AMAN 2025 and reaffirming Pakistan's resolve for promoting peace. He also thanked the participating regional and extra-regional navies for displaying their commitment to collaborative maritime security.
Exclusive Conversations with PNS Moawin Commanding Officer & DGPR
Within the scope of the IFR Session, we had short exclusive conversations with Commodore Ahmed HUSSAIN, Director General of Public Relations (DGPR) for the Pakistan Navy, and Commanding Officer of the Pakistan Naval Ship PNS Moawin (A-39) Captain Humayun Yaqoob AWAN.
At our exclusive conversation Commodore Ahmed HUSSAIN, Director General of Public Relations (DGPR) for the Pakistan Navy, underlined that sole purpose to invite journalists from international media outlets and defense and aerospace sector magazines to the AMAN-25 was to see from their own eyes what exactly the platform (AMAN) is, how beneficial it could be for everybody, for the region, for the mankind, for the humanity and everything. “It's a great honor for us as well that you were here from across the world, different continents and areas and regions” he added. Commodore HUSSAIN also stressed that the Exercise AMAN has gone global actually, “It is not about the region, it's about connecting regions and continents and why we all are gathered here, it is just because the cause is common, challenges are common and no one nation can tackle, address all these issues unless we do it collectively. So collective efforts are essential to address these issues effectively,” he added.
Addressing the question of whether they plan to invite nations beyond the Pacific, Middle East, and Indian Ocean regions, Commodore HUSSAIN affirmed that expanding participation is a key objective. He emphasized that AMAN has already brought together representatives from various parts of the world, each contributing their own experiences, challenges, and proposed solutions. “Based on this, a strategy will be formulated, and invitations will certainly be extended to more countries, particularly in areas such as information sharing and capacity building. The goal is to establish a collective mechanism for cooperation, and we will undoubtedly invite more nations to be part of this initiative,” he added.
On the second day of the AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference, one of the sessions focused on emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI)—a topic rarely addressed in other defense forums. AMAN appears to be one of the first, if not the first, to highlight AI in this context. When asked for his thoughts on this, Commodore HUSSAIN responded, “That’s a very good observation. AMAN has provided a platform to discuss topics that are often overlooked, and AI was a key part of these discussions. More importantly, it wasn’t just about AI itself, but about how different countries and regions perceive and approach it. AI and emerging technologies are evolving rapidly, and each nation views them from a unique perspective. By bringing together diverse viewpoints, we can explore both the benefits and challenges of AI—some of which we may not even be fully aware of yet. As AI and technology continue to advance over the next two years, we will likely face new challenges and opportunities, making these discussions even more relevant and valuable.”
Concluding the conversation, Commodore Ahmed HUSSAIN voiced his hope that they would achieve even greater participation in the next AMAN, ensuring that nations unable to attend this year recognize its impact and join them in their collective resolve against common maritime threats and challenges. “The message of AMAN is clear, sincere, and centered around peace—which is why nations continue to come forward in support. Now, what can your role be? Simply spread the message—not just what has been said, but what you have personally observed and experienced. Share it with honesty and sincerity because the more this initiative grows, the more it benefits all of us,” he added.
At the beginning of our exclusive conversation before replying our questions, Commanding Officer of the Pakistan Naval Ship PNS Moawin (A-39) Captain Humayun Yaqoob AWAN, commented on the Exercise AMAN-25 and the AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference. Captain AWAN said:
“Today we are out at sea for the last phase of Exercise AMAN. As you know, Exercise AMAN started in 2007 with the participation of 28 nations. And today in 2025, by the grace of Allah, 60 nations are participating in this Exercise, which is a testimony that this platform which started in 2007, now it has become a global platform, which is joining the regions, which is joining the navies from different parts of the world.
For the very first time the AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference which started where the participation of chief of the navies that ensured and they displayed the confidence in Pakistan that the message for this AMAN was ‘Together for Peace.’ All these navies, all these units, all these officers, they combined together just to give one message which is we all are together for peace as the maritime threats are transcending as traditional and non-traditional.
So, it is not a singular Navy, which is going to combat this kind of terrorism. So, it must be a collective effort, and this is the demonstration what we have done today in IFR, International Fleet Review, that is the culmination phase of this exercise AMAN. During this IFR we have tried to demonstrate few of the capabilities not only Pakistan Navy, but the other navies they have joined with us.
Today 13 ships from other from 11 navies they joined us, the Turkish Navy aircraft they joined us, and they have demonstrated their capabilities just to give a message that this is a platform which is giving a message to the world that maritime domain is going to be safe.”
Defence Turkey: So, dozens of foreign ships are joining this International Fleet Review (IFR) Phase and as the ship leading the review is there any challenge you know uniting all those foreign ships?
Captain Humayun Yaqoob AWAN: I honestly tell you, being the Commanding Officer of PNS Moawin, it's my profound privilege that I'm hosting the international and national dignitaries on board and conducting this IFR. This is not only the honor for me but also for my crew because they have to prepare the ship, they have to maintain it, they have to plan everything, all small details because without planning and without discussion nothing can happen out itself. So, long-time planning has gone which covered all the small details which enabled us to put a good show today.
Defence Turkey: What's next for PNS Moawin? What are the tasks you'll be taking after AMAN? Where will you be commissioned? Where will you be sailing?
Captain Humayun Yaqoob AWAN:Tomorrow, inshallah, I will be sailing for another bilateral exercise with our friendly country Saudi Arabia.
Defence Turkey: Which exercise?
Captain Humayun Yaqoob AWAN: Exercise Naseem Al-Bahr during which we will be conducting the joint live weapon firing where we will go for the demonstration of our firepower. Firing with the Saudi friends, their ships which are participating in Exercise AMAN will also conduct live firings. Once this Exercise will be culminating today, tomorrow the next exercise that will be starting off.
Defence Turkey: How long have you been in a position of Commanding Officer of PNS Moawin?
Captain Humayun Yaqoob AWAN: Almost a year has been passed that I'm manning the ship and command of a seagoing platform that is always a dream of an officer.
Defence Turkey: You know the prime contractor of the PNS Moawin is STM of Türkiye. Are you happy with PNS Moawin? Is there any criticism or what kind of new capabilities have you gained with this ship?
Captain Humayun Yaqoob AWAN: Very rightly, I am extremely happy with the performance with the facilities which are available on board PNS Moawin. Recently I have concluded my trip to Africa where we have established the medical camp and I proudly say that this is the only platform in Pakistan Navy which is equipped with the complete medical facility which includes ICU which includes operation theatre, dentist, x-ray machines and which is manned by the specialist. I'll not be wrong if I say it's a mini hospital which is capable to conduct any kind of humanitarian mission, may it be the flood relief or may it be any other disaster relief kind of facility.
Defence Turkey: What about the performance of the ship as a whole? You say very long distance turning around Africa and coming back to Pakistan.
Captain Humayun Yaqoob AWAN:You can see there I will put it into two parts one is the machinery aspect, and one is the general performance aspect. This ship was built in 2018.
Almost seven years have passed, and you people have spent a complete day on board. You must roam around, and you see that from any corner if you see that this ship is seven or eight years old, I'm sure you will not find it. This is with regard to the metallurgy, the skill of the Turkish friends, the material what kind of material they have put it into.
Still if you go inside the ship, you will feel the smell of the new ship and with regard to the performance of the ship, I operated out at sea for good about a month without any defect I returned back home. I left Pakistan, I roam around Africa where I established the medical camps and once I returned back harbor and I was ready for the next task.
Defence Turkey: Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) Moawin recently embarked on a humanitarian mission to East Africa, can you elaborate on the countries that you visited during this mission, which aimed to provide medical assistance to local communities and strengthen bilateral relations with the visited nations?
Captain Humayun Yaqoob AWAN: I visited Kenya, then Comoros for the very first time and then Seychelles and Madagascar. We could not go to the Madagascar because of the weather phenomena, there was a storm which hit the Mayotte island and it was a disaster over there so that was the reason why we could not go to the Madagascar otherwise there were ports.
Defence Turkey: Did you establish the hospital there?
Captain Humayun Yaqoob AWAN:We established medical camps in Kenya and in Comoros where we within three days during my stay of three days at Comoros my dedicated team successfully treated almost 12,000 patients in three days and same goes with the Kenya where we treated almost 8,000 patients and we distributed the free medicines that is because Pakistan Navy regularly undertake this mission to the African countries what Pakistan has the better capability we can extend to our brothers wherever they are on the humanitarian grounds. We have the good medical facilities which we wanted to share it with other people and that was one of the most wonderful undertaking for which not only me but my crew and my nation they stand proud to it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Exercise AMAN 2025, which reflects growing global trust in the Pakistan Navy’s role in enhancing maritime security, aims to strengthen maritime security, build international cooperation, and enhance Pakistan’s role in ensuring the safe and secure movement of global trade and energy across the seas. It is also a clear manifestation of Pakistan’s profound commitment in promoting peace and stability in the region through harmony and collaborative efforts between navies of the world. Participation of such a large number of Eastern and Western Navies in the Exercise AMAN is a testament that the international community appreciates Pakistan’s sincere efforts for peace and maritime security and is willing to join hands with Pakistan for creating greater harmony and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
The AMAN Dialogue Conference, which is a very promising platform to unite the countries in the IOR, will provide a significant platform for leaders to address both current and future maritime security challenges, reinforcing Pakistan's leadership in the maritime domain.
The Exercise AMAN-25, which saw the participation of 60 countries from around the world, from A (Australia) to Z (Zimbabwe), was the third AMAN series of multinational maritime exercises that I had the privilege to follow and attend. It was wonderful to engage with the Pakistan Navy, Special Operations Forces (SOF) of Pakistan Navy (Special Services Group Navy/SSG[N] & Marines), and naval professionals from around the world. I enjoy the hospitality of the Pakistan Navy. On this occasion, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Commodore Ahmed HUSSAIN Directorate General Pakistan Navy Public Relations (DGPR) and Commander Ali IRFAN, DPR, for their kind invitation to the AMAN-25 Exercise and AMAN Dialogue 2025 Conference
