Pakistan, China conclude seven-day ‘Sea Guardian’ bilateral naval exercise

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China on Wednesday concluded a seven-day bilateral naval exercise aimed at strengthening tactical coordination, the Pakistani military’s media wing said in a statement.

Exercise “SEA GUARDIAN IV” was conducted from Mar. 25 to Apr. 1 between the Pakistan Navy and the People’s Liberation Army Navy in the southern port city of Karachi.

According to the Pakistani military’s media wing, ISPR, the exercise aimed at enhancing interoperability and maritime cooperation. The exercise included a five-day port phase in Karachi and a two-day sea phase in the North Arabian Sea, the military said.

“The exercise concluded with a coordinated patrol in the Arabian Sea, reaffirming both navies’ commitment to regional maritime security and stability,” the ISPR added.

The exercise started last Wednesday after a Chinese naval vessel arrived in Karachi and was escorted into the port by Pakistan Navy ships in a ceremonial reception.

The ISPR said the sea phase featured of the exercise feature air defense drills against multi-domain swarm threats, operations with a Pakistan Navy submarine, conventional war-at-sea exercises and live gunnery firing to strengthen operational and tactical coordination.

“Activities included exchange visits, orientations at naval installations, professional discussions on maritime challenges and a maiden young officers seminar,” the ISPR said.

The exercise was part of a broader strategic cooperation between Pakistan and China, traditional allies, that spans defense, economic and diplomatic spheres.

The two countries have worked closely together on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), featuring major infrastructure projects such as the development of Gwadar port, alongside deep defense collaboration ranging from joint fighter jet development to military procurements from Beijing.