Pakistan Assumes Command of Combined Maritime Task Force 151

MANAMA, Bahrain – Pakistan Navy has assumed command of Combined Maritime Forces’ (CMF) Combined Task Force 151 (CTF 151), marking a significant milestone in international maritime cooperation. Pakistan Navy Commodore Sohail Azmie took over command from Türkiye’s Rear Adm. Rustu Sezer during a change-of-command ceremony, highlighting the collaborative approach to counter-piracy operations in critical maritime regions.

The transition represents a strategic commitment to maritime security and regional stability. CTF 151, established in January 2009, plays a crucial role in combating piracy and maintaining safety in key international shipping lanes, particularly in the Gulf of Aden and surrounding waters.

Commodore Azmie emphasized the importance of collaborative maritime security, describing it as a “maritime cooperative continuum.” His approach focuses on working closely with partner nations and maritime organizations to accomplish the CMF and CTF 151 missions effectively.

This leadership transition is part of a broader multinational effort. CTF 151 is one of five operational task forces under the CMF, which represents the world’s largest multinational naval partnership. With 46 nations committed to upholding international maritime rules, the task force patrols approximately 3.2 million square miles of critical international waters.

During Rear Adm. Sezer’s tenure, the task force conducted significant multinational exercises and maritime patrols. These operations not only suppressed piracy but also promoted crucial transnational relationships. Sezer specifically acknowledged the contributions of Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Pakistan in these counter-piracy efforts.

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Vice Adm. George Wikoff praised Sezer’s leadership, noting the task force’s success in disrupting illicit activities and fostering regional cooperation. He expressed confidence in Commodore Azmie’s experience as a surface warfare officer and highlighted Pakistan’s strong track record of leading CMF task forces.

This marks Pakistan’s eleventh time commanding CTF 151, underscoring the nation’s dedication to regional maritime security. The task force works in close coordination with the European Union Naval Force, patrolling the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor and ensuring safe passage for commercial vessels.

The CMF’s comprehensive approach involves multiple task forces addressing various maritime security challenges. These include CTF 150 (maritime security operations), CTF 152 (Arabian Gulf security), CTF 153 (Red Sea security), and CTF 154 (maritime training).

As global maritime trade continues to be critical to international economic stability, the work of task forces like CTF 151 remains essential in maintaining safe, secure, and open sea lanes.

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