A week-long exercise ‘Sea Guard 2026’, aimed at ensuring safety and security within the country’s maritime zones, commences in Karachi on Tuesday (today).
The exercise is scheduled to run till February 9, 2026. As the third event in its series, Sea Guard 2026 brings together shipping, fishing, law enforcement, and private sector entities, under the Pakistan Navy umbrella to address their multifaceted challenges.
Addressing the media on Monday, Commander Coast Vice Admiral Faisal Amin explained how the exercise synergises the efforts of stakeholders to ensure safety and security in Pakistan’s maritime zones and beyond. The annual manoeuvres, he said, rehearse various scenario-based exercises alongside table-top discussions to fine-tune mechanisms for maritime protection along Pakistan’s coastline.
Vice Admiral Faisal also provided insight into the working methodology and efficacy of the Joint Maritime Information Coordination Centre (JMICC). Located at Manora, Karachi, the JMICC is the premier hub for maritime information in Pakistan and across the region, harmonising safety and security at sea through seamless information sharing. It is manned by officers from the Pakistan Navy and other stakeholders, including the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA), Pakistan Coast Guards (PCG), Karachi Port Trust (KPT), Port Qasim Authority (PQA), Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and Pakistan Customs.
Giving a glimpse into its role, the JMICC coordinated search and rescue operations at sea, saving 2,600 lives in distress, and collaborated on intelligence-based counter-narcotics operations, resulting in the recovery of assets worth $800 million.
Vice Admiral Faisal lauded the participation of all stakeholders in this national-level exercise and acknowledged the proactive role of the media in promoting maritime awareness. Officers from Pakistan Navy officials, leadership of government sector organisations, and representatives from the private and fishing sectors also participated in the event
