By: Maheen Mirza
As global maritime security continues to be challenged by evolving threats, the Pakistan Navy prepares to host the next iteration of the biennial multinational naval exercise, AMAN, scheduled for February 2025.
Known for promoting peace, cooperation, and security, Exercise AMAN has become a beacon of collaboration in the Indian Ocean region, drawing participation from naval forces around the world.
Since its inception in 2007, Exercise AMAN has aimed to foster an environment where regional and extra-regional navies unite under the common flag of peace. With representatives from over 50 countries attending AMAN 2023, the event saw one of its most diverse contingents to date, illustrating the exercise’s growing importance on the world stage. Each participant brings its own expertise, enhancing the exercise’s ability to address a wide range of issues, from counter-piracy operations to disaster response.
The next AMAN exercise, with a theme cantered on “Together for Peace,” will take place in the waters off Karachi, providing an open platform for collaboration, as well as strategic engagement between nations. Pakistan Navy’s hosting of the event is a testament to its commitment to regional stability and serves as a call for unity in times of division.
Pakistan’s geographical position places it at the heart of one of the world’s busiest maritime routes, making the country a critical player in regional security. Recognizing this, the Pakistan Navy has stepped up its contributions to global maritime security, currently commanding the Combined Task Force (CTF) 150—a coalition dedicated to countering terrorism, illicit activities, and illegal trafficking at seas. This command role underscores Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding vital sea lanes that connect economies worldwide.
In the broader context, Exercise AMAN exemplifies the Pakistan Navy’s proactive approach in building a secure maritime environment. Through its role in various Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions—such as its recent support to earthquake-hit regions in Syria and Turkey—the Navy has shown a consistent dedication not only to combat threats but to respond compassionately to crises.
AMAN’s objectives go beyond conventional maritime security to include preparation for HADR missions, a pressing need given the frequency of natural disasters in the region. By focusing on joint response drills, AMAN allows participating countries to share best practices and prepare for emergencies, ensuring that collective relief efforts are efficient and coordinated.
The success of Exercise AMAN extends to the realm of naval diplomacy, where it serves as a platform for building goodwill among countries with varied political interests. AMAN’s multinational structure allows countries to engage in dialogue, build trust, and work toward common goals, ultimately reinforcing diplomatic relations. Pakistan Navy’s continuous efforts in organizing this exercise underscore its vision of peaceful cooperation in the maritime domain.
As AMAN 2025 approaches, the Pakistan Navy is gearing up to welcome allies and partners for yet another iteration of this iconic exercise. The event will include strategic meetings, maritime drills, and cultural exchanges, all designed to bridge differences and unite efforts in pursuit of peace.
In a world faced with mounting maritime challenges, Exercise AMAN shines as a beacon of hope and unity. Through it, the Pakistan Navy reaffirms its role as a champion of stability, determined to foster cooperation and build a secure maritime future for generations to come.
“Together for Peace” stands not only as the slogan for AMAN but as a promise—one that calls nations to work collectively for a safer, more harmonious world.
