ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Navy has raised ‘Task Force-88’ (TF-88) for the seaward security of Gwadar port and protection of associated sea lanes against both conventional and non-traditional threats.
The creation of the special maritime force had been necessitated by the operationalisation of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which is expected to lead to a surge in maritime activity at Gwadar — the nodal point for CPEC — and the sea lanes.
This has in turn increased the maritime susceptibilities there.
According to official sources, the TF-88 would comprise ships, Fast Attack Craft, aircraft, drones (unmanned aerial vehicles), and surveillance assets.
Additionally, marines would be deployed at sea and around Gwadar for security operations.
“The task force would be a force multiplier for overall security of CPEC. The land route has already been secured by Special Security Division and now Gwadar, the centerpiece of CPEC, will also be safe and secure,” Chairman Parliamentary Committee on CPEC Senator Mushahid Hussain said.
TF-88 would be commissioned this week.
“Pakistan Navy is ensuring maritime security of CPEC and Gwadar port through the deployment of available assets,” the navy officer said. “We are fully cognizant of the challenges to security of CPEC and Gwadar port.” Challenges to Pakistan’s maritime security have traditionally come from India.
It may be mentioned here that the fourth Pak-China joint naval exercise held in November, which was aimed at promoting maritime security and stability in the region, specifically focused on challenges to CPEC in security domain. Navy has also raised a Coastal Security and Harbour Defence Force for tackling threats along the coast and stationed a Force Protection Battalion at Gwadar for protection of Chinese workers.
