Japan Takes Command of Combined Task Force 151

June 3, 2015

Japan made history on Sunday 31 May as it took command of a multi-national task force for the first time since the Second World War.

The Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force will lead Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151) in its mission to continue the deterrence and suppression of piracy off the Horn of Africa.

The Japanese-led task force, commanded by Rear Admiral Hiroshi Ito, is part of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s ‘Proactive Commitment to Peace’, an initiative to develop Japan’s contribution to international security.

Japan has, over the years, provided a significant contribution to international counter-piracy efforts.

As part of Combined Maritime Forces, an organisation with over 30 member states, Japan will lead CTF 151 for three months, conducting operations to deter and maintain the suppression of piracy in the Horn of Africa. Other nations working in direct support to the Japanese-led headquarters include Australia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Thailand, Turkey, UK, and USA.

Image: CMF