KARACHI: Multinational Naval Exercise AMAN-17 came to its conclusion with spectacular sea manoeuvres and fleet review in the North Arabian Sea on Tuesday amid a joint resolve of 37 countries – “Together for Peace”.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was the chief guest on the occasion. Upon arrival onboard Pakistan Navy Ship NASR, Nawaz was received by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah.
The defence minister, the defence secretary, Sindh governor, Sindh chief minister, chairman joint chiefs of staff committee, chief of the army staff, chief of the air staff, Sri Lankan naval chief, national security advisor to PM, ambassadors, consul generals, diplomats and civil and military officials were also present.
Nawaz was briefed on the overall conduct and operational perspective of the exercise and was given a detailed account of the sea-based activities.
He witnessed various operational serials of the exercise conducted at sea by participating naval ships, aircraft, helicopters and PAF fighter jets. These serials comprised of replenishment of men and material from one ship to another, Rockets Depth Charge (RDC) firing and surface to surface firing on pre-determined targets. Nawaz 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 the salute to the dignitary. All the coalition ships also formed up for traditional “AMAN Formation” to signify unity and harmony amongst the participating nations against seaward crimes and maritime terrorism.
Expressing his satisfaction, he 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 of world navies on Pakistan. He also stated that with this state of operational readiness, Pakistan Navy is fully prepared and committed to ensuring seaward defence and safeguard maritime interests of Pakistan.
37 countries participated in this Multinational Naval Exercise AMAN-17 which was conducted in two phases; the harbour phase spanned from 11-12 Feb and the sea phase from 13–14 Feb 17. The harbour phase comprised International Maritime Conference, seminars, table talks, cross ships visits, call on, International Band Display and Maritime Counter Terrorism Demonstration. Whereas, the sea phase included practical execution of operational plans and activities finalised during harbour phase.
