KARACHI: Two Saudi warships, HMS Jazan and HMS Hail, will participate in Pakistan's AMAN-25 naval exercise, scheduled from February 7 to 11 in the North Arabian Sea, a senior Pakistani naval official confirmed.

The AMAN exercise, held biennially since 2007, is a multinational naval drill organised by the Pakistan Navy to enhance regional maritime security and interoperability among allied forces.

This year, AMAN-25 is expected to feature nearly 60 countries, with activities conducted in two phases: a harbour phase from February 7 to 9, followed by a sea phase from February 10 to 11, which will include search and rescue operations, live weapon firings, and an international fleet review.

Rear Admiral Abdul Munib, Commander of the Pakistani Fleet, underscored the importance of strong maritime ties with Saudi Arabia, highlighting the participation of the Royal Saudi Naval Forces in the exercise.

"Saudi Arabia is a brotherly country," said Munib, adding that Pakistan also shares close naval relations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), both of which will be actively involved in AMAN-25.

In addition to the two Saudi ships, the Kingdom's Special Operations Forces (SOF) and Underwater Demolition (UWD) teams will also participate in the exercise. The UAE is sending one ship and its own SOF and UWD teams.

Over 200 international observers are expected to attend, reinforcing the global significance of the exercise. This year's AMAN-25 is set to be a major platform for enhancing cooperation among the world's navies, with a focus on addressing emerging maritime challenges.

Published in The Daily National Courier, February, 05 2025

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