ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s National Hydrographic Authority has issued threeseparate NAVAREA IX warnings and Notices to Mariners, reserving a massiveexpanse of the Arabian Sea close to Karachi, raising speculations aboutimminent naval exercises and potential missile tests in the coming days.Maritime sources indicate that such reservations are typically precursorsto live weapon firings, including anti-ship missiles, as the Pakistan Navycontinues to enhance its operational readiness amid regional securitydynamics.
The reserved areas cover significant portions of the northern Arabian Sea,with coordinates delineating zones where commercial and fishing vessels areadvised to avoid entry to ensure safety. These notices, promulgated throughthe official channels of the Hydrographic Office under the Pakistan Navy,align with international protocols under the International MaritimeOrganization for safeguarding navigation during military activities.
Experts note that NAVAREA IX, coordinated by Pakistan since 1976,encompasses parts of the Arabian Sea, Persian Gulf, and Red Sea, and suchwarnings are standard for exercises involving live ordnance. The scale ofthe reserved area suggests involvement of multiple naval assets, possiblyincluding surface ships, submarines, and aviation units, testing integratedwarfare capabilities.
Recent patterns show the Pakistan Navy has conducted similar reservationsprior to successful tests of indigenously developed systems, such as theship-launched anti-ship ballistic missile tested in late 2025. That missiledemonstrated precision strikes against sea and land targets, underscoringadvancements in guidance technology and manoeuvrability.
The timing of these warnings comes as the navy maintains heightenedvigilance in its maritime domain, crucial for protecting vital sea lanesthat handle over ninety-five percent of Pakistan’s trade. Karachi Port andPort Qasim serve as gateways, making seaward defence a priority amidevolving threats in the Indian Ocean region.
Analysts point out that these activities also serve to validate technicalparameters of new weapon systems, ensuring reliability in complexenvironments. Previous live firings have involved surface-to-air andanti-ship missiles, reaffirming the fleet’s combat readiness and deterrenceposture.
Mariners have been cautioned to exercise extreme vigilance, maintainlistening watch on designated VHF channels, and reroute vessels to avoidthe prohibited zones during the specified periods. The warnings remain inforce until further notice, with cancellations issued upon completion ofactivities.
Defence observers highlight that such drills contribute to operationalproficiency without escalating tensions, focusing on self-reliance indefence production. Indigenous developments reduce dependency on foreignsupplies, aligning with national strategic objectives.
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The Pakistan Navy’s commitment to safeguarding maritime interests isevident through regular demonstrations of firepower, includingmulti-platform missile launches observed by senior leadership. Theseefforts bolster confidence in the navy’s ability to respond to anycontingencies.
As global shipping transits these waters, the timely issuance ofnavigational warnings underscores Pakistan’s responsible role as NAVAREA IXcoordinator, prioritising safety while pursuing legitimate militarytraining requirements.
Source:https://hydrography.paknavy.gov.pk/navarea-ix-warnings/
Tags: Pakistan Navy, Arabian Sea, NAVAREA IX, Missile Tests, Karachi
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