The Pakistan Navy is set to host the 9th Multinational Maritime Exercise AMAN-25 and the inaugural AMAN Dialogue this February.
The exercise, running from February 7-11, will see the participation of 60 countries, contributing ships, aircraft, and personnel, including special forces, marines, and explosive ordnance disposal experts.
The Pakistan Navy said on January 26 that it was “all set” for the event. Around 120 global delegations are expected to attend the AMAN Dialogue, a concurrent forum where military leaders will address key maritime security threats, The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.
“A key feature of this year’s exercise will be the Aman Dialogue, where Chiefs of Naval Forces, heads of Coast Guards, and senior leaders from around the world will convene to discuss regional maritime security and devise joint strategies to counter evolving maritime threats,” the Navy’s statement read.
Two phases of Aman 2025 Exercise
The exercise will be conducted in two phases: harbour and sea, said Pakistan Navy in the statement. During the harbour phase, activities will include seminars, operational discussions, counter-terrorism demonstrations, and pre-sail planning for sea evolutions, as outlined in the Navy’s statement.
“The sea phase would include tactical manoeuvres, exercises related to maritime security such as anti-piracy and counter-terrorism, search and rescue, gunnery firings and air defence exercises.”
The sea phase will also include the international fleet review, which will be attended by national and international dignitaries, according to the Navy.
With over 4,000 personnel anticipated to participate, the exercise is seen as “the most prominent and historic military activity in the region” by the ISPR.
“The opening ceremony of the Aman 2025 exercise will be held at the Pakistan Navy Dockyard. During the Aman exercise, the Pak Marines and the Special Service Group (Navy) will also demonstrate their counter-terrorism skills,” ISPR said, adding that joint operations against maritime crimes would also be practiced at sea.
The overarching theme of Exercise AMAN-25 is “Together for Peace,” while the inaugural Dialogue will focus on “Secure Seas and Prosperous Future.”
Key Objectives of Pakistan Navy Exercise AMAN 25
The objectives of the exercise include:
- Improving interoperability among global navies, while refining responses, tactics, techniques, and procedures to counter non-traditional threats.
- Fostering a shared understanding of maritime security concerns and challenges.
- Evaluating the effectiveness of current maritime security mechanisms.
- Highlighting the role of the Blue Economy in contributing to broader economic growth.
The 8th edition, AMAN-23, took place from February 10-14, 2023, in Karachi and the North Arabian Sea, with 51 navies taking part.
The 6th edition of the AMAN series, AMAN-19, was held from February 8-12, 2019, in Karachi and the North Arabian Sea, with navies from 83 countries invited, and 46 participating.
The inaugural AMAN exercise in 2007, held under the motto “Together for Peace,” saw participation from 28 nations. By 2023, the number of particpants grew to 50, including major naval powers.