Pakistan Marines
The Pakistan Marines, referred to as “Pak Marines,” constitute an integral expeditionary and amphibious warfare branch within the Pakistan Navy. Established on June 1, 1971, in East-Pakistan, their primary role is to execute missions in littorals, providing force protection, ground-based air defense, and creek defense using the mobility of the Pakistan Navy.
Comprehensive Overview
| Emblem | Colors | Flag |
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| Overview: | ||
| Nicknames: Pak Marines | ||
| Established: 1 June 1971 (52 years, 7 months ago) | ||
| Country: Pakistan | ||
| Branch: Pakistan Navy | ||
| Type: Marines | ||
| Role: Specialized in amphibious warfare and naval infantry | ||
| Strength: Approximately 18,000 personnel | ||
| Affiliation: Part of the Pakistan Navy | ||
| Headquarters: Manora Fort, Pak Marines Base, Karachi Coast, Sindh, Pakistan | ||
| Anniversaries: Navy Day on 6 September | ||
| Motto: | ||
| Arabic: “وَ اعْتَصِمُوْا بِحَبْلِ اللّٰهِ جَمِیْعًا وَّ لَا تَفَرَّقُوْا۪” | ||
| Urdu: “اور اللہ کی رسی مضبوط تھام لو سب مل کر اور آپس میں پھٹ نہ جانا (فرقوں میں نہ بٹ جانا)” | ||
| English: “Hold fast to the rope of Allah, all of you together, and do not be divided.” (Qur’an, 3:103) | ||
| Operational History: | ||
| Participated in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 and various conflicts. | ||
| Contributed to humanitarian efforts during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. | ||
| Key Leadership: | ||
| Commander-in-Chief: President Arif Alvi | ||
| Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff: General Sahir Shamshad Mirza NI(M) | ||
| Commandant: Vice Admiral Raja Rab Nawaz HI(M) | ||
Other Details
Role and Responsibilities:
The Pakistan Marines play a crucial role in safeguarding coastal and amphibious regions, emphasizing force protection. They operate within a joint military framework, collaborating closely with the Pakistan Army for training, logistics, and executing expeditionary operations.
Historical Background:
Initially commissioned to assist the Pakistan Army in riverine warfare, the Marines demonstrated their effectiveness during the 1971 war, successfully evacuating encircled Pakistan Army units. However, they were decommissioned in 1974 due to the absence of riverine areas for operations. In 1990, under Cdr. Obaidullah, the Marines were re-organized, becoming an essential component of the Navy.
Recommissioning and Modern Role:
Recommissioned on November 25, 1990, the Marines have since conducted expeditionary operations in collaboration with the special forces of the army and navy. Trained at the School of Infantry and Tactics by Pakistan Army instructors, their focus lies on quick response and marine reconnaissance to secure coastal and amphibious regions.
Collaborative Operations:
In times of national crisis, such as the devastating floods in 2010, the Pakistan Marines worked tirelessly in coordination with the Pakistan Army, Navy, and Air Force. Their efforts were directed towards rescuing villagers trapped by the country’s worst deluge in 80 years, showcasing their commitment to national service.
The Pakistan Marines, as an indispensable arm of the Pakistan Navy, have evolved to play a vital role in safeguarding the country’s littorals. Through historical challenges and strategic recommissioning, they continue to contribute significantly to the nation’s defense, conducting operations in collaboration with other branches of the military for the greater security and well-being of the Pakistani people.