ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are holding their joint naval drills ‘Naseem Al Bahr-XIV and Deraa Al Sahil’ in Al Jubail, Saudi Arabia.
The joint naval exercise between the Pakistan Navy (PN) and the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) commenced on Saturday.
The primary objectives of these exercises are to strengthen bilateral relations and improve the interoperability between the two naval forces, including their Special Operations Forces. The maritime drills encompass a wide spectrum of naval operations, covering both traditional and non-traditional warfare domains, read a press release issued by the Pakistan Navy.
To participate in these exercises, a Pakistan Navy Flotilla consisting of Pakistan Navy Ships SAIF, HIMMAT, DEHSHAT, and MUHAFIZ arrived at the port of Al Jubail in Saudi Arabia. The senior officials of the RSNF extended a warm welcome to the visiting ships, along with Pakistan’s Diplomatic Staff in Saudi Arabia.
Special Operations and Marines Join Pak-Saudi Naval Drills
Moreover, Special Operations Forces and Marines from both countries’ navies, as well as helicopters and aircraft from the Royal Saudi Air Force, are actively participating in the exercises. During the harbor phase, both sides engaged in discussions on professional topics and finalized the plans for the sea exercises.
The activities during the harbor phase included workshops on tactical procedures, seminars, simulator training, exchange visits, and coordination meetings, all of which were conducted prior to the commencement of the sea-based exercises.
‘Naseem Al Bahr’ exercise is a biennial naval exercise with a history spanning over three decades. It symbolizes the strong strategic relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and their shared commitment to enhancing cooperation in the naval domain to effectively address maritime challenges together.
