New Delhi has lodged a formal diplomatic protest after an Indian and a Pakistani warship reportedly collided in the North Arabian Sea, a tense stretch of water that has witnessed periodic naval standoffs between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
According to defence sources, the incident took place during early morning hours when the two vessels were operating in close proximity. Both navies have confirmed that the collision occurred, though they described the damage as minimal. The Indian Navy stated that the affected vessel sustained slight bruising to its hull but remained fully operational, while Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) echoed a similar assessment.
No injuries were reported among the crew members on either ship. The vessels subsequently separated and returned to their respective bases without further incident.
The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that India raised the matter through diplomatic channels, expressing concern over safety protocols in international waters. A spokesperson said India requested Pakistan to ensure that such incidents do not escalate tensions and to follow established maritime protocols for safe navigation in contested waters.
This is not the first time Indian and Pakistani naval vessels have had close encounters in the Arabian Sea. The waters, which separate the two countries' coastlines, are a strategically significant zone where both nations conduct regular maritime patrols and joint exercises with other friendly navies. The last major naval incident between the two sides was reported in 2019, during a period of heightened military tensions following the Pulwama attack.
Defence analysts noted that while collisions at sea are relatively common due to the vastness of maritime operations, the location of this particular incident — near waters that both nations monitor closely — has drawn attention. Some experts suggested the collision may have been accidental, caused by navigational errors or miscommunication rather than any deliberate provocation.
The Indian Navy has traditionally maintained a significant presence in the Arabian Sea, conducting anti-piracy operations, maritime surveillance, and training exercises. Pakistan maintains a smaller but capable naval force focused primarily on the protection of its coastline and sea lanes.
Both governments have so far kept a measured tone, with neither side assigning blame or escalating rhetoric. Military observers say the incident underscores the need for clearer communication mechanisms between the two navies to prevent misunderstandings at sea.
