Pakistan has taken command of the Combined Maritime Forces’ Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 after from the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy during a ceremony in Bahrain on October 26.
The ceremony was presided over by Vice Admiral Kevin Donegan, Commander US Naval Forces Central Command, Commander US Fifth Fleet and Commander Combined Maritime Forces.
CTF 151’s principal mission is to disrupt piracy and armed robbery in the maritime environment encompassing the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, Somali Basin and Southern Red Sea.
Commodore Muhammad Shuaib SI (M), Pakistan Navy, assumed command of CTF 151 from Rear Admiral Nam Dong Woo, ROK Navy.
Pakistan has previously commanded CTF 151 seven times and also currently commands the CMF counter-terrorism CTF 150. During the next four months Commodore Shuaib will lead a multi-national team to deter pirates, reassure those who ply the seas legitimately and facilitate the free flow of commerce across his area of operations.
On handing over command, Rear Admiral Nam said: “ I am proud to have served here, and of all we have achieved together. I am convinced that Commodore Shuaib will continue to enjoy success as he takes command of CTF 151.”