On Tuesday, the Pakistan Navy announced its takeover of a multinational task force responsible for maritime security in the southeastern Middle East, covering the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, and Gulf of Aden.
The Combined Task Force 150 (CTF-150), part of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF)—a coalition of 34 nations—focuses on counter-terrorism, anti-smuggling, and navigational security. The CMF plays a crucial role in protecting global maritime routes, especially in areas vulnerable to piracy and militancy.
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Commodore Asim Sohail Malik of the Pakistan Navy has assumed command from Captain Colin Mathews of the Royal Canadian Navy in Bahrain.
Commodore Malik highlighted the challenging nature of CTF-150’s operational area, pledging to strengthen the task force’s security efforts. This is the 13th time the Pakistan Navy has led the task force, reflecting the respect and confidence of coalition partners.
At the change of command ceremony, Commander Malik reaffirmed the Pakistan Navy’s dedication to working with coalition navies to ensure peace and stability in the region.
