The government of Canada has extended the country’s contribution to international maritime security operations in the Middle East and East Africa under operation Artemis.
Announced by defence minister Harjit S. Sajjan and parliamentary secretary Jean Rioux, operation Artemis authorizes the Canadian Armed Forces to deploy a number of maritime assets to the Combined Maritime Forces’ Combined Task Force 150 (CTF 150), to bolster security in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean.
This maritime region, which spans over 5 million square kilometers of international waters, includes the main shipping routes from the Far East to Europe and North America.
By denying criminal organizations the ability to smuggle weapons, illicit cargo, and narcotics, CTF 150 is also taking away their access to millions of dollars in funding that could be used for illicit purposes.
“Today’s global environment is complex and dangerous, with threats to safety and security that are increasingly interconnected. The government of Canada’s renewed commitment to counter-terrorism efforts is vital to building a safer and more prosperous world,” Defence Minister Harjit S. Sajjan said. “I’m incredibly proud of the women and men contributing to the success of Operation ARTEMIS and know that their hard work will continue to deliver real results that benefit not only Canada, but the global community.”
The extension will see Canada deploy up to 375 personnel, seek command of CTF 150 twice during the four year mandate and provide a Halifax-class frigate once every two years and a CP-140 Aurora Maritime Patrol Aircraft once each year.
Canada is also providing up to $131.4 million in funding to support the four year extension of Operation Artemis to April 30, 2021.