Maritime security is the most significant element of global trade, economic stability, and national security. In contemporary world, where security threats in the maritime domain are escalating, coordinated efforts are necessary to ensure safe and secure seas. The Joint Maritime Information Coordination Centre (JMICC), established in 2013, a ground-breaking initiative by Pakistan Navy, has become a dominant hub for maritime information sharing and coordination. Located in Manora, Karachi, JMICC functions with a clear vision and mission: to enhance Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) by integrating national and international stakeholders, by contributing to maritime security in the region. Its mission is to sustain MDA through fast information sharing and coordinated actions to counter illicit activities in Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of Pakistan and beyond.
Over the years, JMICC has played a revolutionary role in addressing maritime challenges by increasing collaboration among 48 national and 08 international stakeholders. However, the success of JMICC lies in its ability to bridge the gap between civil and military organization by creating an integrated approach to maritime security. This is exemplified in initiatives like Exercise Sea Guard-25. The second instalment of exercise Sea Guard series, was conducted this year from February 24 to 28.
Arranged by Pakistan Navy, this exercise is to bring together reps from ‘fisheries, law enforcement agencies, private sector entities, and non-governmental organizations, including the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency, Pakistan Coast Guards, Anti-Narcotics Force, and Karachi Port Trust, among others.’ The main objective of Sea Guard-25 is to boost coordination among national stakeholders by using JMICC as a mutual platform to strengthen security of Pakistan’s maritime zones. This exercise aims to improve existing maritime security mechanisms by conducting practical, scenario-based exercises at sea and through combined discussions. JMICC is playing an essential role in enabling information sharing and collaboration.
JMICC mainly emphasizes on six fundamental areas including, “Maritime Terrorism, piracy, organized maritime crime (including human trafficking, drug smuggling, and illegal arms trade), illegal exploitation of the EEZ (particularly illegal fishing), marine pollution, and search and rescue operations.” JMICC ensures a comprehensive approach to maritime governance and law enforcement. The centre’s efficiency is engrained in its ability to gather information from diverse sources and share it with relevant stakeholders in a short period of time.
Moreover, Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) is the foundation of effective maritime security. JMICC has made noteworthy progress in augmenting MDA by creating a detailed tactical picture of maritime zones of Pakistan. This is achieved through effective advanced surveillance technologies, information sharing, and community engagement. JMICC’s community engagement program is predominantly impactful. Through visiting coastal villages and enhancing interaction with local fishermen, JMICC gathers wealth of local knowledge and experience. This grassroots method not only helps to create an early warning system but also guarantees that information is communicated quickly in areas where traditional surveillance methods may be inadequate. For instance, in cases of illegal fishing in Pakistan’s EEZ, timely information received by local fishermen supported JMICC to coordinate a swift response which leads to the apprehension of the offenders.
In addition to its community outreach, JMICC has also incorporated technology to improve its operational capabilities. The launch of the ‘Assistance, Anytime, Anywhere at Sea (AAAS)’ mobile app is a key example. It was established in collaboration with the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency and it allows users to report all types of maritime incidents or send SOS requests with a single click. This has significantly improved response timing in emergencies.
Notwithstanding, another JMICC’s most significant contributions is its role in developing civil-military relations. By bridging together 48 national organizations, ranging from military organizations to civilian law enforcement and environmental agencies, JMICC has generated a platform for unified collaboration. This civil-military synergy is indispensable in addressing the complex and multifaceted maritime security challenges. However, the centre’s ability to enable data sharing and coordination among diverse group of stakeholders creates a benchmark for other countries. For example, during a joint operation to fight drug smuggling in the Arabian Sea, JMICC’s coordination between Pakistan Navy, Coast Guard, and civilian law enforcement agencies led to the successful interception seizure of a narcotics-laden vessel. This operation echoes the importance of civil-military collaboration in confronting transnational maritime threats.
In times of rising traditional and non-traditional challenges in Indian Ocean Region, JMICC’s role is indispensable. By utilizing technology, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, JMICC has not only strengthened Pakistan’s maritime security but also greatly contributed to regional stability. Its efforts in combating non-traditional threats including, piracy, illegal fishing, and marine pollution, serve as a model for other nations to follow. As we look to the future, JMICC’s continued commitment to information sharing, maritime domain awareness, and civil-military collaboration will be highly crucial in addressing the growing challenges of maritime domain. JMICC is a beacon of hope and a testament to how unity and cooperation among civil military organizations can generate a safer and more secure maritime environment for all.
