UNIPATH STAFF
The navies of 37 countries performed spectacular sea maneuvers at AMAN-17, the annual multinational naval exercise that took place in the North Arabian Sea in February 2017. Ships, aircraft, helicopters and fighter jets participated in search and rescue operations, gunnery drills, anti-piracy demonstrations, replenishment at sea and maritime counterterrorism demonstrations.
Based in Karachi, Pakistan, the exercise was in two phases. During the harbor phase, scholars and military figures participated in an International Maritime Conference, which focused on the theme “Strategic Outlook in the Indian Ocean Region 2030 and Beyond – Evolving Challenges and Strategies.” In the sea phase, Pakistani and other forces executed the plans and activities finalized during the conference.
In the complex security environment of the Indian Ocean, Pakistan will continue to play a significant role in maintaining peace and stability, said Adm. Muhammad Zakaullah, chief of naval staff. The success of AMAN-17 was a “clear testimony” to Pakistan’s influence on the regional stage.
“The presence of such a large number of foreign navies is reflective of the confidence of the world’s navies in Pakistan,” said former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. “With this state of operational readiness, the Pakistan Navy is fully prepared and committed to ensuring seaward defense and safeguarding the maritime interests of Pakistan.”
He added that Pakistan, a major stakeholder in maritime security in the Arabian Sea, is committed to ensuring freedom of navigation and lawful maritime order. Cooperation among international navies is imperative to counter the multidimensional and multifaceted security challenges present in the Indian Ocean, he said.
Vice Adm. Arifullah Hussaini, commander of the Pakistani fleet, said the exercise would help combat human trafficking, narcotics smuggling and terrorism in the region.
Nine countries sent warships to the exercise, including Australia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Russia, Sri Lanka, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States. Other countries sent delegates to observe the exercise. Pakistan has hosted the exercise every other year since 2007.
At the close of the exercise, all participating ships created a traditional “AMAN Formation” to signify unity and harmony among the participating nations.
“AMAN 17 was an opportunity for the U.S. and Pakistan to continue our ongoing maritime cooperation and to work with other partners to strengthen global security,” said David Hale, the U.S. ambassador to Pakistan.
Sources: Dawn.com, Hilal-The Pakistan Armed Forces Magazine, Geo.TV, Radio Pakistan, Getty Images