The Pakistan Navy has taken command of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) after conducting a handover ceremony with the Royal Navy.
Commodore Bilal Abdul Nasir of the Pakistan Navy assumed command of CTF150 from Commodore Guy Robinson of the Royal Navy on August 4 in a ceremony held at the CMF headquarters in Bahrain.
Commodore Nasir will lead a team comprising personnel from the Pakistan Navy.
Passing over command, Commodore Robinson said: “I have had a hugely rewarding time commanding CTF 150 and am very grateful for the contributions from many nations that have made a successful command possible. CTF150 plays an important role in maintaining security for the numerous mariners that go about their lawful business in this region.”
On assuming command, Commodore Nasir said it was a privilege to lead CTF 150. He acknowledged the successes of Commodore Robinson’s team, both at sea and in their active engagement with regional Navies.
CTF 150’s principal mission is to disrupt terrorist organisations and their unlawful activities by restricting freedom of manoeuvre in the maritime domain.
CTF150 has been combating terrorism by tackling the narcotics and weapons trafficking at sea that funds terrorist activities. Its vessels also assist mariners in distress and undertake other humanitarian work as required. For the last four months, under the command of the Royal Navy, CTF 150 has been working to deter terrorists and smugglers from using the seas as an avenue to finance crime and terrorist activity.