Pakistan Navy vessel collides with Indian warship in Arabian Sea - The Hindu

**Pakistan Navy Vessel Collides with Indian Warship in the Arabian Sea**

*Karachi – New Delhi, 16 September 2026* – A Pakistan Navy auxiliary ship, identified as PNS Hunain, struck an Indian Navy frigate in the north‑central Arabian Sea on Thursday afternoon, according to statements released by both militaries. The collision occurred roughly 150 nautical miles off the coast of Gujarat during routine patrol operations. Initial reports suggest that limited visibility and close‑quarters maneuvering contributed to the mishap, though a formal investigation is pending.

The impact caused moderate damage to the hull of PNS Hunain, forcing the vessel to halt its mission and head back to Karachi for repairs. Indian officials confirmed that their frigate sustained only superficial dents and reported no casualties on either side. Both navies activated standard maritime safety protocols, deploying rescue teams to assess the situation and ensure the safety of crew members. The Pakistan Navy later announced that the ship would undergo a thorough inspection at the Karachi Naval Dockyard, while the Indian Navy affirmed that the incident would be examined by its Board of Inquiry.

Diplomatic channels were swiftly engaged to defuse any escalation. Pakistan’s Ministry of Defence described the collision as “an unfortunate accident” and expressed a willingness to cooperate fully with Indian authorities. New Delhi, through the Ministry of External Affairs, echoed a similar sentiment, urging a transparent, joint inquiry to establish the facts and prevent future incidents. The episode arrives at a time of heightened maritime vigilance in the region, prompting lawmakers in India’s Parliament to call for a review of naval engagement rules and broader confidence‑building measures between the two neighbouring forces.