ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan-China joint naval exercise “SEA GUARDIAN IV” has successfully concluded in Karachi, marking another significant step in strengthening maritime cooperation and strategic partnership between Pakistan and China.
The exercise, which started on 25 March, brought together naval forces from both countries to enhance interoperability, improve coordinated response capabilities, and reinforce regional maritime security amid evolving challenges in the Indian Ocean region.
“The exercise included a five-day port phase in Karachi and a two-day sea phase in the North Arabian Sea,” according to a statement issued by Pakistan’s military media wing, Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR).
“During the port visit, PLA Navy Ship DAQING was welcomed by PNS TAIMUR. Activities included exchange visits, orientations at naval installations, professional discussions on maritime challenges, and a maiden Young Officers Seminar,” it said.
Sea phase featured Air Defence drills, submarine ops, War at Sea maneuvers and Live Gunnery Firing. Exercise concluded with a coordinated patrol, reaffirming PN and PLA (N) commitment to regional maritime security and stability. 2/2 pic.twitter.com/ufK0n83aXI
— DGPR (Navy) (@dgprPaknavy) April 1, 2026
The sea phase featured key exercises such as air defence drills against multi-domain swarm threats, operations with a Pakistan Navy submarine, conventional war-at-sea exercises, and live gunnery firing, strengthening operational and tactical coordination.
The exercise concluded with a joint coordinated patrol, reaffirming the commitment of the Pakistan Navy and the People’s Liberation Army Navy to strengthening regional maritime security and stability.
The exercise reflects the broader strategic partnership between Pakistan and China, which extends across defence, economic, and diplomatic domains.
Both countries have maintained close cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, driving major infrastructure development, including the expansion of Gwadar Port.
Their defence ties are equally robust, encompassing joint fighter jet development, military technology collaboration, and significant defence procurements from Beijing.
Pakistan and China have steadily strengthened their maritime cooperation in recent years, with joint exercises serving as a key security pillar of their broader strategic partnership.
At the same time, Islamabad continues to conduct similar naval drills with other regional and international partners to enhance interoperability and promote collective maritime security.
