Pakistan Navy has launched the Pakistan Navy XC Guards exercises to enhance coordination, preparedness, and response across the country’s maritime sector. The exercises, which began this week, will continue until February 9 and involve a range of government departments, security agencies, and private sector stakeholders connected to maritime affairs.
The opening ceremony was held with Vice Admiral Faisal Amin as the chief guest. Speaking on the occasion, he said the exercises reflect Pakistan Navy’s continued commitment to safeguarding the country’s seas while addressing emerging challenges in the maritime domain. He explained that XC Guards combines planning discussions with practical sea-based drills to ensure institutions are better prepared for both routine and emergency situations.
The Pakistan Navy XC Guards exercises are being conducted under the theme “Safe Seas, Stable Pakistan,” highlighting the link between maritime security and national economic stability. Officials said the drills are designed to test coordination mechanisms, information sharing, and joint response capabilities among various maritime organisations.
Vice Admiral Faisal Amin noted that trust in the Joint Maritime Information and Coordination Centre has improved significantly among public and private institutions. He said this growing confidence has strengthened communication and helped build a more integrated approach to maritime safety and security.
Highlighting the economic importance of the sea, he stated that Pakistan’s fishing industry has the potential to generate billions of dollars annually if managed sustainably. He added that the Ministry of Maritime Affairs has made visible progress over the past year to improve policies and operations related to the marine sector.
However, he also raised serious concerns about marine pollution, calling it a major threat to Pakistan’s coastal environment. He pointed out that the country’s waters were far cleaner decades ago and stressed the need for urgent action. According to him, two projects are currently being implemented in collaboration with the Sindh government to help control pollution and protect marine ecosystems.
During the Pakistan Navy XC Guards exercises, special attention is being given to non-traditional maritime threats, including environmental hazards. Drills related to pollution response and environmental protection are part of the overall programme.
The Vice Admiral also shared that a vessel monitoring system for fishing boats is close to completion, which will improve safety and oversight at sea. He emphasized the importance of educating and training fishermen, noting that informed communities play a vital role in maritime security.
He expressed optimism about the successful conduct of the exercises and said XC Guards has already helped strengthen links among maritime institutions. He reaffirmed that Pakistan Navy will continue to support initiatives aimed at expanding the fishing sector while promoting a cleaner, safer, and more secure maritime environment for the country.