Courtesy: PN History Cell

The idea of setting up of a dedicated Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Repair Facility was conceived in early 80’s due to significant shift in modern day technology. In October 1989, a small setup named PCB Repair Facility was established at first floor of Mechanical Transport Repair Organization (MTRO) building situated in Naval Stores Sub Depot (NSSD) area. In January 1990, Precision Calibration Facility was added to the setup. Naval Precision Electronics Complex (NPEC) was given an autonomous status by Naval Headquarters in 1995. In March 1997, the organization was formally commissioned as NPEC. Following are major progressive achievements:

- 1989 Diagnostic Equipment & Gauges (TMDEs).

- 1997 Establishment of NPEC ISO Certification.

- 2010 Establishment of PCB Fabrication Facility.

The main work force of NPEC comprises uniform and civilian personnel, so as to augment PN units through shore support.

Naval Precision Electronics Complex (NPEC)

Establishment of modest set-up for PCB Repair and calibration Test Measuring and

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22

February 2017 Vol. 30 Issue. 1

Patron-in-Chief: Cdre Ahmed Nadeem Bukhary SI(M)

Chief Editor: Cdr Zakir Hussain Khan TI(M)

Editor:Cdr Abdul Jalil Adnan PN

Contributions by:Cdr Rashid Nazir (Dir Analysis & Plans)

Managing Editor:Lt Cdr Adnan Safdar PN

Graphic Designer:Fayaz Ahmad Abbasi

Composing: Majid Nawaz

Photographers: Abdul Jabbar, Dilawar Khan, Tanveer Ahmed, Babar Shahzad, Aman Ullah, Ayaz Hussain Khokhar

02

Multinational Naval ExerciseAMAN 2017

A Report

International Maritime ConferenceA Report

Sri Lankan Naval Chiefvisits Naval HeadquartersA Report

20

An Article by Captain Asad Ali PNMultinational Naval Exercise - AMAN 17 18

08

21

02 February 2017

NAVY NEWS

Multinational Naval Exercise

Pakistan Navy has been hosting Multinational Naval Exercise AMAN biennially since 2007 which has a global outlook.

With AMAN Exercise PN seeks to enhance interoperability between regional and extra regional navies as a means of promoting peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region and beyond. This Exercise also provides a unique training opportunity to develop and practice response tactics which helps participants foster and sustain the mutual relationships that are conducive to ensure the safe and secured sea lanes on the world’s oceans.

Exercise AMAN-17 was conducted by PN from 10-14 Feb 17 at Karachi which was fifth of Multinational Exercise AMAN series. The participation details of AMAN-07, 09, 11 and 13 are as follows:

AMAN-07

First Exercise was held in March 2007. During AMAN-07, total of 29 countries participated with naval assets and 29 observers. 14 ships from Bangladesh, China, France, Italy, Malaysia and UK joined the exercise. In addition, Special Operations Forces (SOFs), Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams from Bangladesh, Turkey and USA also participated.

AMAN-09Second Exercise of AMAN series was held in March 2009. A total of 24 countries participated in the exercise with naval assets and 35 observers. 14 ships from Australia, Bangladesh, China, France, Malaysia, UK, and USA and 02 x aircraft (P-3C) from Japan participated in the exercise. In addition, SOF/ EOD teams from Bangladesh, China, Nigeria, Turkey and USA also participated in the exercise.

AMAN-11Third Exercise of the AMAN series was conducted from 8-12 March 2011. During this exercise, 28 countries participated with naval assets and 43 observers. Total of 11 ships from Australia, China, France, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia and USA participated. 03 aircraft from Australia & Japan and 03 SOF/EOD teams and Marines from China, Turkey and USA also participated in the Exercise AMAN-11.

AMAN-13AMAN-13 was the 4th exercise of AMAN series and was conducted from 4-8 Mar 13. During this exercise, total of 29 countries participated. 12 foreign ships, two Japanese P3Cs, 9 SOF/EOD teams and 36 observers participated in the exercise.

AMAN-17

Multinational Naval Exercise AMAN-17 was held from 10-14 February 2017. Navies from 37 countries participated along with Ships, Aircraft, Helicopters, Special Operations Forces, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Teams, Marines and 67 Observers in this exercise. The Exercise was conducted in two phases; the harbour phase spanned from 10-12 Feb and the sea phase from 13–14 Feb 17. The harbour phase comprised International Maritime Conference, Seminars, Table Talks, cross ships Visits, Call- ons, International Band Display and Maritime Counter Terrorism Demonstration. Whereas, the Sea phase included practical execution of operational plans and activities finalized during harbour phase.

The Exercise was planned with focused objectives, which include:

- Projection of positive image of Pakistan as a country contributing towards regional peace and stability.

- Consolidate PN’s position in the regional maritime arena.

- Enhancing interoperability with regional and extra regional navies thereby acting as a bridge between the regions.

Pakistan has always been an ardent supporter of regional peace and collaborative security. As a torch bearer of this unflinching resolve, Pakistan Navy is spearheading

numerous initiatives, and conduct of Multinational Naval Exercise AMAN-17 is one of the quantum leaps towards the fulfilment of this shared vision along with

global partners

AMAN-17

History

EX AMAN-17 EXCLUSIVE

03February 2017

NAVY NEWS

- Display of united resolve against terrorism and crimes in maritime domain.

The Exercise was designed to provide a common forum for:

- Information sharing, mutual understanding and identifying areas of common interests for group analysis and dialogues through International Maritime Conference.

- To develop and practice response tactics, techniques and procedures against asymmetric and traditional threats during sea phase of the exercise.

- Intermingling of multinationals with depiction of their respective cultures during cultural shows/ food galas.

Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah in his message on commencement of the Exercise said that threats to maritime security increasingly emanate from contemporary asymmetric challenges like terrorism, piracy, narcotics, arms and human smuggling which have greatly impacted the maritime environment. The vastness of oceans and threats posed in maritime security also do not respect boundaries as their effects are felt globally. Consequently, there is a strong realization that no one nation can single handedly cope with the quantum of this

prevailing threat, making cooperative maritime strategy a matter of compulsion rather than choice.

Naval Chief further added that Pakistan Navy has always been a forerunner in the quest for collaborative security in this regionof immense strategic importance. It is part of a number of regional and international initiatives to

achieve this end. AMAN series of exercises are effectively built on this concept.

EX AMAN-17 EXCLUSIVE

Multinational E x e r c i s e AMAN 17 formally commenced with a

colourful flag hoisting and opening ceremony held at PN Dockyard. Participating navies’ reps, observers, foreign diplomats and a large number of officers and men attended the ceremony.

Speaking on the occasion, Commander Pakistan Fleet said that we are here for a common purpose, for a common goal to ensure security, to make this world safe for us, for rest of the humanity so that there is a peace which brings prosperity and progress that is what our constitution mandates us to do. We believe in inclusive policy and we think that if the world stands together, there will be great benefits for all of us.

Commander Pakistan Fleet reiterated that Pakistan Navy has always been a consistent security contributor in IOR. Being a lead

nation, Pakistan Navy is actively participating with other navies in combating Narco trade, human smuggling, terrorism and piracy at high seas. We need to make collective efforts to eliminate these threats for lasting peace in the region.

Aiming to provide visibility over planning and execution of Exercise AMAN-17, a media brief was also held at PN Fleet Headquarters prior to Flag Hoisting Ceremony. Commander Pakistan Fleet, Vice Admiral Arifullah Hussaini

addressed the media and gave details of the exercise.

Dwelling upon the aims and objectives of the exercise, the Fleet Commander said that the primary objective of this exercise is to have a platform which can promote mutual understanding and interests. In addition, the exercise is intended to devise procedures and techniques against conventional and non conventional threats.

Flags Hoisting Ceremony

04 February 2017

NAVY NEWS EX AMAN-17 EXCLUSIVE

05February 2017

NAVY NEWSEX AMAN-17 EXCLUSIVE

Naval Platforms of 09 participating countries including Australia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Russia, Sri Lanka, Turkey, UK and USA arrived Karachi for participation in Multinational Naval Exercise AMAN 2017. The ships/Aircraft participated were:

Foreign Ships/Aircraft participation

Upon arrival, the visiting ships were given a warm welcome by senior Pakistan Navy officials amid catchy tunes of national songs, played by PN band. Officials of the consulates of visiting countries were also present on the occasion.

AustraliaHMAS ARUNTA

United KingdomHMS DARING

United States of AmericaUSS COMSTOCK

China- HARBIN- HANDAN- DONGPHINGU

Indonesia KRI SULTAN ISKANDARMUDA

Japan02 x P3C ORION A/C

Russia- SEVEROMORSK - ALTAY- DUBNA

Sri LankaSLNS SAMUDRA

TurkeyTCG GELIBOLU

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah visited various ships of foreign navies participating in Exercise AMAN-17.

Upon his arrival, the Naval Chief was warmly welcomed by senior officers/Task Group Commanders/Commanding officers of respective ships and was presented guard of honour by smartly turned out contingents.

The Naval Chief held formal interaction with senior

officers/Task Group Commanders/commanding officers. During the discussions with officers onboard, the Naval Chief highlighted the role and contribution of Pakistan Navy as forerunner in the quest for collaborative security in this region.

The Admiral said that the camaraderie generated herein will grow in future and shall bring us closer to the mutual goal of regional peace and prosperity. He also appreciated and thanked for their participation in AMAN Exercise to fulfil common resolve of “Together for Peace”.

The senior officers/Task Group C o m m a n d e r s / c o m m a n d i n g officers of the respective ships highly acknowledged the strenuous efforts of Pakistan Navy by bringing together global navies towards a shared commitment of maritime peace, stability and lawful order at sea.

The Admiral had an informal interaction with the crew of visiting ships and appreciated their professionalism and morale.

The Naval Chief also recorded his remarks in guest books of visiting ships.

NAVY NEWS

06 February 2017

CNS visit to Foreign Ships

EX AMAN-17 EXCLUSIVE

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Special Operations Forces and Marines of Pakistan Navy presented an impressive Maritime Counter Terrorism Demonstration at Manora. Sri Lankan Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral

RC Wijegunaratne graced the demonstration as Chief Guest. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah was also present at the occasion.

The rise of terrorism and instability at global level has changed the nature of how nations engaged both friends and foes. Special Forces worldwide find themselves in non-conventional wars, peculiar operations and home defense missions which were unseen just a decade ago. Special Forces play a unique role that include tracking of terrorists cells and leaders, disrupting insurgent campaigns and building relationships with international partners for ensuring peace and stability.

Maritime Counter Terrorism Demonstration was a fine display of strength and specialized skills by Special Operations Forces

and Marines of Pakistan Navy to counter acts of maritime terrorism and refine special operating procedures.

The demonstrations while using

versatile platforms included fast maneuvers by Hovercraft, Military Assault and VBSS boats and Special Forces boats (SFBs), insertion of Air Assault Teams through helicopters, para-jumps by SSGNs/Commandos, frogman attacks, coordinated beach assault and reinforcement followed by extraction. The event witnessed a high level coordination and professionalism of Special Forces.

Pakistan Navy Special Forces and Marines conduct regular exercises with foreign Special Forces to keep abreast of the latest techniques in Special Warfare. Maritime Counter Terrorism Demo is a string of same scheme depicting firm dedication of Pakistan Navy to meet the challenges regarding maritime terrorism issues.

Earlier, an International Bands display was also presented by

the bands of participating countries of AMAN 17, aiming to c o n n e c t

the countries through cultural heritage as well. The military bands from Sri Lanka and of Pakistan Army, Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Air Force played a mix of their traditional and military tunes. The enchanting m e l o d i e s m e s m e r i z e d the audience and were really appreciated.

A large number of personnel of the participating navies, observers, foreign diplomats and senior officials of Armed Forces of Pakistan witnessed the Counter terrorism demonstration and Bands display.

Maritime Counter Terrorism Demonstration and International Band Display

The rise of terrorism and instability at global level has changed the nature of how nations engaged both friends and foes. Special

Forces worldwide find themselves in non-conventional wars, peculiar operations and home defense missions which were unseen just a

decade ago. Special Forces play a unique role that include tracking of terrorists cells and leaders, disrupting insurgent campaigns and

building relationships with international partners for ensuring peace and stability

NAVY NEWS

08 February 2017

EX AMAN-17 EXCLUSIVE

NAVY NEWS

09

EX AMAN-17 EXCLUSIVE

February 2017

The pinnacle of Multinational Naval Exercise AMAN-17 was a day long sea activities which came to its conclusion with spectacular sea maneuvers and International Fleet Review in the North Arabian Sea, amid a joint resolve of 37 countries - “Together for Peace”.

Prime Minister of Islamic Republic of Pakistan Muhammad Nawaz Sharif was the Chief Guest on the occasion. Governor Sindh, Chief Minister Sindh, Defence Minister, National Security Advisor to PM, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Chief of the Army Staff, Chief of the Air Staff, Sri Lankan Naval Chief, Secretary Defence, Ambassadors, Consul Generals, Diplomats and other high ranking civil and military officials were also present on the occasion.

Upon arrival onboard Pakistan Navy Ship NASR, the Chief Guest was received by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah. The Prime Minister was briefed on the overall conduct and operational perspective of the exercise and was given a detailed account of the sea based activities.The Chief Guest witnessed different operational serials of the exercise conducted at sea by participating naval ships, aircraft, helicopters and PAF fighter jets. These serials comprised replenishment of men and material from one ship to another, Rockets Depth Charge (RDC) firing and surface to surface firing on pre-determined targets. Prime Minister was also presented an impressive fly past by various aircraft and helicopters of PN, PAF and participating countries including Japanese P3C Orion aircraft.

In the end, all participating ships of different countries skim past PNS NASR in a column formation and presented salute to the dignitary. All the coalition ships also formed up for traditional “AMAN Formation” to signify unity and harmony amongst the participating nations.

Expressing his satisfaction,

the Prime Minister lauded the strenuous efforts of Pakistan Navy for the successful conduct of Exercise AMAN-17, which is a manifestation of Pakistan’s policy of constructive engagement with the comity of nations for peace and stability in the maritime commons. He further added that presence of such large number of foreign navies is reflective of confidence

“Presence of such large number of foreign navies is reflective of confidence of world navies on Pakistan. With this state of operational readiness, Pakistan Navy is fully prepared and committed to ensure seaward defence and safeguard maritime interests

of Pakistan”.

International Fleet ReviewNAVY NEWS

10 February 2017

EX AMAN-17 EXCLUSIVE

“Presence of such large number of foreign navies is reflective of confidence of world navies on Pakistan. With this state of operational readiness, Pakistan Navy is fully prepared and committed to ensure seaward defence and safeguard maritime interests

of Pakistan”.Prime Minister of Islamic Republic of Pakistan

of world navies on Pakistan. “With this state of operational readiness, Pakistan Navy is fully prepared and committed to ensure seaward defence and safeguard maritime interests of Pakistan”, He also emphasised.

Maritime security challenges in the Indian Ocean have acquired international dimensions.

Cooperation between international navies therefore, is imperative to counter these emerging threats. Pakistan being a major stakeholder in maritime security of Arabian Sea is fully committed to ensure freedom of navigation and lawful maritime order. Successful conduct of Multinational Naval Exercise AMAN-17 under the auspices of Pakistan Navy is a big stride towards

this direction. Participation of 37 countries across the globe, with their warships, aircraft, helicopters, Special Operation Forces, Explosive Ordnance Teams, Marines and Observers in this Exercise is manifestation of poise and confidence on Pakistan in joining hands for common resolve of peace and stability.

The exercise is also a reflection of the strong ties between Pakistan and global navies and display of converging strategic interests which will go a long way in promoting maritime security and stability in the region.

11February 2017

NAVY NEWSEX AMAN-17 EXCLUSIVE

12 February 2017

NAVY NEWS EX AMAN-17 EXCLUSIVE

Glimpses - Ex AMAN 17

NAVY NEWSEX AMAN-17 EXCLUSIVE

Glimpses - Ex AMAN 17

13February 2017

NAVY NEWS

14 February 2017

Under the auspices of Pakistan Navy and in tandem with Multinational Naval

Exercise AMAN-17, a three-day International Maritime Conference 2017 was conducted at Karachi. The National Centre for Maritime Policy Research (NCMPR), Bahria University organized the Conference and invited eminent scholars from Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, UK, and USA to deliberate on the theme

“Strategic Outlook in The Indian Ocean Region 2030 and Beyond - Evolving Challenges and Strategies”. Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Mr. Sartaj Aziz was the Chief Guest at Opening ceremony. Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral M Zakaullah was also present on the occasion.

While addressing the audience, the Chief Guest emphasized on the importance of uninterrupted use of seas for the common good. He stated that marine environment is also an essential component of global life support system and investing in marine eco-systems can help us improve ocean management. He also assured unstinted support

of the Government for the development of maritime sector.

Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah, in his opening remarks welcomed all guests and participants and said that while the political and strategic environment, both at the regional and global level, continues to evolve, the oceans being a repository of unending resources are becoming increasingly important as the global economic

system is dependent on free flow of seaborne trade. Any disruption or delay in transportation of goods at sea has the potential to disproportionately affect the global economy.

The Naval Chief further added that apart from conventional or traditional threats to maritime security, the non-traditional threats are a significant emerging dimension which require a collaborative response. It is simply obvious that no single nation can afford to do it alone. In this regard, Pakistan Navy also being cognizant of its responsibilities, is adaptive and playing its part in coordination with international community towards enhancing maritime security in the region

as well as locally. In this context hosting of an International Maritime Conference on ‘ CPEC and Gwadar Port ’ and raising of Task Force-88 in December last year, are some of the recent measures which would lend credence to the conducive maritime environment for the growth of maritime trade within the region and beyond.

President Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Sardar Masood Khan also addressed the gathering as

keynote speaker. He accentuated the challenges and opportunities of geo-political and economic trends in the Indian Ocean Region.

In the second session of opening day of conference, Vice Admiral R C Wijegunaratne, Sri Lankan Naval Chief was the Chief Guest who appreciated the efforts of Pakistan Navy in holding AMAN-17 and conduct of the IMC.

The prominent speakers of the session, Rear Admiral Farrokh Ahmed, Commander Karachi deliberated on the Strategic Options for Pakistan Navy in emerging Geo-political Scenario. Whereas, Dr. Christine Bueger from the United Kingdom spoke on role of Pakistan in the

International Maritime Conference

MARITIME AFFAIRS

NAVY NEWS

15February 2017

MARITIME AFFAIRS

Western Indian Ocean Security Architecture. Afterwards, Captain (Retd) Martin A. Sebastian from Malaysia talked about Organized Maritime Crimes and discussed different strategies for their effective management in the region.

In the last session of the day, speakers presented research papers on noteworthy topics like, “Indian Expansionist Designs remain the greatest security risk to South Asia”, “Strategic Outlook in the Indian Ocean Region: Nuclear Dimensions and Impact on Deterrence Stability”. Admiral Shahid Karimullah, former Chief of the Naval Staff was the Chief Guest for the Session.

“Maritime Economy and Environment” remained in focus on the second day of the 7th International Maritime Conference 2017. Rear Admiral (Retd) Pervaiz Asghar expressed his thoughts on “Emerging Opportunities in the Indian Ocean Trade Regime”.

Mr Kamran Nasir CEO, JS Global Bank discussed the export opportunities for Pakistan arising out of increased maritime connectivity in the western Indian Ocean Region. He was followed by Admiral (Retd) Dr. Jayanath Colombage from Sri Lanka, who dwelt on the issues of “Economic Impact of Sustainable Fisheries Management in the Indian Ocean Region”. Dr. Ijaz Shafi Gillani, Chairman Gallup Pakistan was the Chief Guest of this session.

The following session of the day was on the theme of “Marine Environment and Ocean Governance”, in which Dr. Wang Dakui from China emphasized on having a cooperative mechanism for Indian Ocean Region to deal

with environmental hazards and early warning risk assessment. Dr. Steen Christensen, from International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), shed light on regional collaboration amongst countries in the Indian Ocean for b e t t e r c o a s t a l

management and ocean governance.

Dr. Nuzhat Khan from National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) presented a paper on “Marine Protected Areas and Challenges to Local Populace from Conservation and Marine Ecosystem”: Dr. Shahid Amjad from Institute of Business Management discussed medium and long term issues affecting management of sustainable fisheries in Indian Ocean. Mr. Abdul Munaf

Qaimkhani, Deputy Inspector General Forests was the Chief Guest of the Session.

The third day of the IMC witnessed closing ceremony wherein, Defence Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Khawaja M Asif was the Chief Guest. While addressing the audience, the Chief Guest stated that the Indian Ocean has emerged as a key arena of geopolitics as strategic interests of the world are routed in this region. The overwhelming reliance on the sea routes and increasing volume of global sea borne trade has enhanced the importance of Indian ocean region for the world community.

He further said that with the operationalization of CPEC and Gwadar Port, maritime activities would increase exponentially in North Arabian Sea and beyond. Consequently, the responsibilities of Pakistan Navy would also increase for maintaining a secure maritime environment

for smooth flow of sea trade. He acknowledged the maritime security initiatives taken by Pakistan Navy for ensuring peace and order at sea individually and in collaboration with the partner navies. He also appreciated convening of the conference which is a step in the same direction and is indeed praiseworthy.The Defence Minister also congratulated and distributed prizes among the students of Bahria University and NCMPR, who won the article and poster competitions held on the sidelines of the Conference. Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah in his closing remarks said that the initiatives of developing economic corridors and linking to maritime routes have provided impetus for economic integration of the regional countries and beyond.

He further said that CPEC is one such development in the region and with the operationalization of CPEC and Gwadar port, the scope and potential of blue economy will increase further.Naval Chief also said that Maritime Security in the Indian Ocean Region has gained particular significance in the recent past due to increased dependence of the world on sea borne trade and quest for energy resources. Any disruption in the free flow of trade would not only impact the regional states but also have implications for the overall global economy.

A large number of foreign delegates, Pakistan Navy officials, civil and military dignitaries attended the proceedings of all three days of the Conference.

16 February 2017

NAVY NEWS MARITIME AFFAIRS

18 February 2017

NAVY NEWS

The vastness of oceans which count more than two third of the planet earth has witnessed virtual shrinking over the last

2 – 3 decades. This has been primarily caused due mammoth advancements in naval warfare TTPs (Tactics, Techniques and Procedures), hi-tech mass destruction weapons, long range high definition sensors, robust command, control, communications and Intelligence systems. These advancements on one hand enable a nation-state to

pursue its national interests while on the other, imposes restrictions on their free usage due lethal impact. Geo-strategic landscape has also witnessed transformation of threat from traditional to non-traditional ones from non-state actors encompassing piracy, maritime terrorism, marine pollution, gun-running, narco and human trafficking etc.

The advancements in warfare, lethality of weapons and transformed nature of threat

makes it difficult for an individual nation to ensure peace and stability in a particular region. Alliances, partnerships, joint operations, coalition forces and multinational Task Forces (TFs) are therefore the right choice in today’s environment to counter and contain contemporary threats while capitalizing on the technological advancements. As per a consensus belief, navies world over speak the common language of Morse and Flags albeit with minor differences on

tactical level. Therefore, a must prerequisite prior forming up such alliances, TFs or coalition forces is to enhance interoperability between participating nations which conditions the environment for conduct of multinational maritime exercises. These exercises afford opportunities for the mariners around the world to operate together and learn from each other’s experience contributing to the overall betterment of the maritime environment.

Indian Ocean remained the hot bed of economic, military and diplomatic activities during the latter half of 20th and most part of the 21st century. Oil exports, Invasion of Afghanistan by Soviet Union in 70s and later by US led coalition in 2001, Gulf wars, Operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, piracy off Somali coast, Yemen crisis, rise of ISIS, turmoil in Levant etc are few significant ones worth mentioning in this regard. Notwithstanding, as mentioned

earlier, the globalised nature of world has shortened distances and created a homogenous and contiguous ocean space all over the world whereby, events happening at one place impacts on the other almost instantly.

Pakistan located on the cross roads of world’s most important seaways has played a pivotal role in maintaining order, peace and stability in the post 9/11 scenario. Pakistan Navy shouldered huge responsibilities of policing

AMAN2017

Captain Asad Ali PN

Multinational Naval Exercise

EX AMAN-17 EXCLUSIVE

19February 2017

NAVY NEWS

North Arabian Sea (NAS), active participation in coalitions with assets and human resource and round the clock presence to counter terrorism and piracy at sea. These efforts stretched relatively lesser resources of PN, however still could not affect the resolve of leadership, who saw the dividends of this participation well in advance.

Thus, in pursuance of common goals of peace, harmony, good order, stability and continuous use

of important SLOCs for economic purposes; Pakistan Navy has worked hands in glove with other regional and extra regional actors. Today, PN ships, submarines and aircraft maintain round the clock presence in Gulf of Aden (GoA), GOO and NAS for achievement of these goals. In addition, PN has started various initiatives to enhance interoperability among the regional and extra-regional navies of which the Multinational Exercise AMAN is the hallmark. The biennial exercise AMAN

started in 2007 has now matured over a decade and fulfilled its perceived objectives set forth at the time of inception to the fullest. In hindsight, it can be claimed that the initiative has paid more than desired dividends. As the word implies, the exercise has garnered peace and stability across the region resultantly shaping conducive environment for collective economic prosperity. The exercise has witnessed steady growth in terms of participants, scope and activities. Pakistan

Navy hosted AMAN 17 from 10 to 14 February 2017 which was bigger and wide ranging from previous exercises of this series. The exercise encompasses various activities ranging from scholarly debates, warfare seminars, SOF and Marine exercises and advance sea warfare exercises.

International Maritime Conference (IMC) was also organized as an integral part of the Exercise AMAN. IMC offered a scholarly platform for information sharing

and mutual understanding while identifying areas of common interests for the wide ranging audience. Participants ranging from renowned maritime experts, diplomats, seasoned naval officers, think tanks representatives and policy makers form a unique blend of policy, military and academia to dwell upon the future prospects of the maritime frontiers. Besides that, the exercise offered excellent opportunity to hone the professional tactical skills of the crew of visiting ships,

aircraft and submarines while enhancing interoperability and mutual understanding on various aspects of naval warfare.

The exercise also opened the door of ravishing and magnificent thousand years old history of the Land of Pure to the visiting dignitaries, crew and observers. Living to its reputation, the exercise will extend messages of goodwill, friendship and peace emanating from Pakistan to the participating countries.

EX AMAN-17 EXCLUSIVE

21February 2017

Vice Admiral R C Wijegunaratne, Commander Sri Lanka Navy called on Chief of the Naval Staff,

Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah.

Upon arrival at Naval Headquarters, the Sri Lankan Naval Chief was received by Chief of the Naval Staff.

A smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Navy clad in ceremonial dress presented him the Guard of Honour. Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah introduced the visiting dignitary to the Principal Staff Officers at Naval Headquarters.

Later, the Sri Lankan Naval Chief called on Chief of the Naval Staff in his office, where he held detailed discussions on professional matters and bilateral naval collaboration in diverse fields with his counterpart. A comprehensive brief on PN’s operational developments was also given to the visiting dignitary.

Admiral Zakaullah thanked Vice Admiral R C Wijegunaratne for active participation by Sri Lankan Navy in Multinational Naval Exercise AMAN 17 to join hands for common resolve of ‘Together for Peace’. Sri Lankan Naval Chief highly lauded the efforts of Pakistan Navy to maintain collaborative security in the Indian Ocean and beyond.

Earlier during his visit to Karachi, Vice Admiral R C Wijegunaratne attended different events of Multinational Naval Exercise AMAN 17, including International

Fleet Review and graced the Session-II of International Maritime Conference, International Band Display and Maritime Counter Terrorism Demo as Chief Guest. The dignitary called on Naval Field Commands at Karachi and laid wreath at mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam. Sri Lankan Naval Chief also visited Pakistan Navy War College Lahore.

The visit is expected to greatly enhance the bilateral collaboration between the two Navies in various avenues.

Sri Lankan Naval Chief visits Naval Headquarters

Sri Lankan Naval Chief visits Naval Headquarters

NAVY NEWSVISITS