Karachi (TDI): The Pakistan Navy has welcomed a Chinese warship, PLA(N) Ship Daqing, to participate in the fourth iteration of the bilateral maritime exercise SEA GUARDIAN, underscoring growing defense cooperation between Islamabad and Beijing.
The visiting vessel, operated by the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA Navy), arrived at a Pakistani port on March 25 and was received with a ceremonial welcome.
According to an official press release, Pakistan Navy ships escorted Daqing into harbor with “traditional zeal,” reflecting the longstanding camaraderie between the two navies.
Scheduled to run until April 2, Exercise Sea Guardian 2026 aims to enhance operational coordination and strengthen maritime collaboration between the two countries.
PLA(N) Ship DAQING arrived at Karachi to participate in PAK-CHINA Joint Exercise SEA GUARDIAN IV (25 Mar-2 Apr 26). The ship was accorded a ceremonial welcome and escorted into port by PN ships, reflecting strong bilateral ties. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/qwXciy1mid
— DGPR (Navy) (@dgprPaknavy) March 25, 2026
The drills will include both harbor and sea-phase activities, designed to improve interoperability and promote the exchange of professional expertise.
Planned engagements include subject matter expert discussions, coordinated patrols, gunnery exercises, and maritime security operations. A seminar involving young naval officers from both sides will also address contemporary maritime challenges, highlighting the emphasis on future leadership and strategic dialogue.
Defense analysts note that the Sea Guardian series has evolved into a key platform for Pakistan-China naval cooperation since its inception.
The exercise reflects broader strategic alignment between the two countries, particularly in the context of regional security and the protection of vital sea lanes in the Indian Ocean.
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Pakistan and China have steadily expanded their military collaboration over the past decade, including joint exercises, defense technology transfers, and naval modernization initiatives.
China remains a major supplier of naval hardware to Pakistan, including frigates and submarines, while both countries share concerns over maritime security threats such as piracy and regional instability.
Officials from both sides have emphasized that the exercise is defensive in nature and aimed at promoting peace and stability. “Sea Guardian reflects our shared commitment to a secure maritime environment,” the statement noted, adding that such engagements contribute to confidence-building and mutual trust.
The arrival of PLA(N) Ship Daqing and the launch of Sea Guardian 2026 come amid increasing geopolitical competition in the Indo-Pacific region.
