First phase of Pak-Saudi naval exercise Naseem Al Bahr concludes

The biennial joint exercises will continue till February 17 in Saudi Arabian waters

ISLAMABAD: The first phase of the joint naval exercise, Naseem Al Bahr XI being conducted at Port Al Jubail between Pakistan Navy and Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) was concluded on Monday.

During the first phase, various training exercises were organised onboard PN and RSNF ships and harbour facilities, said an official news release issued here.

Planning modules on conduct of amphibious landing operations, escorting operations, sniper/camouflage techniques and mine-counter measures procedures were rehearsed by the two navies.

Mission commander of Pakistan Navy and exercise director from RSNF closely monitored and supervised the training activities.

Naseem Al Bahr is aimed at enhancing inter-operatability and sharpen the tactical proficiency in counter-piracy, anti-air and surface warfare and mine countermeasure warfare.



The exercises will help in developing cooperation in operations against asymmetric, air, surface and mine threats.

On completion of harbour phase, next phase of the exercise will include joint naval operations at sea and will continue till February 17 in Saudi Arabian waters.

Concurrently, Pakistani and RSNF marines are also engaged in joint marine exercise 'Deraa Al Sahil'.

Conduct of joint maritime exercise between Pakistan Navy and RSNF in present geo-political milieu assumes great significance and will go a long way in enhancing bilateral relations between the two countries, said the press release.

Since the inception of biennial exercise Naseem Al Bahr in 1993, it has matured as an advanced level maritime exercise involving almost all facets of naval forces. The level of participation from both sides signifies the trust and mutual confidence, which prevails between the two countries.