The Islamic Republic of Iran and Pakistan have staged a joint naval drill in the northern Indian Ocean as part of efforts aimed at upgrading and exchanging military experience between the two neighboring states.
During the one-day drill, Iranian and Pakistani naval forces rehearsed different types of military and tactical formations of vessels and submarines.
The Iranian naval fleet present in the exercises comprised Falakhon (Sling) and Khanjar (Dagger) missile boats, Hendijan and Deylam replenishment ships as well as a Ghadir midget submarine.
The Iranian flotilla had earlier docked at the Pakistani port of Karachi to convey the message of peace and friendship to Pakistan. It arrived at Karachi port on May 2 and was warmly welcomed by Pakistans Navy officials.
In recent years, Irans Navy has increased its presence in international waters to protect naval routes and provide security for merchant vessels and tankers. In line with international efforts against piracy, the Iranian Navy has also been conducting patrols in the Gulf of Aden since November 2008 in order to safeguard merchant containers and oil tankers owned or leased by Iran or other countries.
Irans Navy has managed to foil several attacks on both Iranian and foreign tankers during its missions in international waters.