Iran, Pakistan hold joint naval exercise in waters off Karachi coast

The 43rd flotilla of the Iranian Navy has participated in a joint relief and rescue drill with Pakistani naval forces in waters off the port city of Karachi.

Following necessary coordination among the Iranian commanders of the flotilla and Pakistani naval forces, the joint maritime drill began off the coast of Karachi on Saturday, with the main focus on naval rescue and relief operations.

Several exercises were carried out during the joint maneuver such as search and rescue training, helicopter vertical reference training, telecommunication exercises using flags, lights, radiographs and the formation and combination of the surface vessels of Iran and Pakistan according to pre-determined scenarios.

The 43rd flotilla, consisting of Lavan logistic warship, Falakhan and Khanjar missile-equipped warships, Konarak troop-carrier warship and a domestically-manufactured helicopter took part in the drill.

The commanders of the Iranian fleet also plan to meet with Pakistani naval commanders and officials and visit floating units in a bid to boost maritime training and interaction between the two neighboring countries.

The 43rd Iranian flotilla berthed at the port of Karachi on September 27.

In recent years, the Iranian Navy has increased its presence in international waters to protect naval routes and provide security for merchant vessels and tankers.

SS