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Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich from the Royal Thai Navy and Commander CTF-151 welcomed onboard the JS Harusame

The commander of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) counter-piracy task force visited two ships assigned to counter-piracy duties during a recent visit to Oman.

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Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich from the Royal Thai Navy and Commander CTF-151 with Captain Sun-Woo Hwang, the Commanding Officer of ROKS Dae Jo Yeong, and his officers

Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich from the Royal Thai Navy and Commander of CMF’s counter-piracy task force, CTF-151, took the opportunity presented by a visit to the Omani port of Salalah to visit two ships assigned in support of CTF-151. Rear Admiral Wanich, who was in Oman meeting with officials from the Royal Navy of Oman, was delighted when he found out that Republic of Korea Ship Dae Jo Yeong and Japanese Ship Harusame, both having recently supported CTF-151 counter-piracy operations, were calling into the port during his visit.

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Captain Sun-Woo Hwang, Commanding Officer of ROKS Dae Jo Yeong, with Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich from the Royal Thai Navy and Commander CTF-151, in the Wardroom ROKS Dae Jo Yeong

Accompanied by Commander Komol Kongboonrak, one of the CTF-151 staff officers, Rear Admiral Wanich visited ROKS Dae Jo Yeong on 22 January. The ship, taking a break from counter-piracy patrols, was in port for a period of rest and recuperation and to replenish her storerooms after a prolonged period at sea. On arrival, he met with Captain Sun-Woo Hwang, the ship’s Commanding Officer, and several of the ship’s officers. Rear Admiral Wanich thanked the crew members for their professionalism and performance on operations before opening the floor to questions, giving the officers a chance to ask questions about key developments in the conduct of counter-piracy operations. Following the briefing, Captain Sun-Woo Hwang provided a tour of the ship before Rear Admiral Wanich departed.

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Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich from the Royal Thai Navy and Commander CTF-151 was briefed by the ship’s Operations Officer during the meeting with Captain Sun-Woo Hwang, Commanding Officer of ROKS Dae Jo Yeong

Leaving the Korean ship after an enjoyable and rewarding visit, Rear Admiral Wanich then proceeded to JS Harusame, another of CTF-151’s ships which was just coming alongside in Salalah port. Rear Admiral Wanich, who had previously visited the ship in Djibouti at the beginning of December, was welcomed back by Captain Masatoshi Kashihara, commander of the 20^th Deployment of the Surface Force for Piracy Enforcement, and Commander Kunio Aoki, the ship’s Commanding Officer. After meeting with the ship’s officers, the Rear Admiral thanked the crew for their assistance to a disabled Yemeni fishing vessel in the Gulf of Aden. It was clear from the outset that the Japanese officers had enjoyed serving as part of CTF-151, and Rear Admiral Wanich recognised their professionalism.

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Captain Masatoshi Kashihara, Commander of the 20th Deployment of the Surface Force for Piracy Enforcement, with Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich from the Royal Thai Navy and Commander CTF-151

Rear Admiral Wanich said:

“I was so happy to meet with the crew of ROKS Dae Jo Yeong and JS Harusame again. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to both ships for their great support to CTF-151 and for their professionalism and performance as counter-piracy units in the area of operations.”

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Commander Kunio Aoki, Commanding Officer of JS Harusame, with Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich from the Royal Thai Navy and Commander CTF-151

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Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich from the Royal Thai Navy and Commander CTF-151 was warmly welcomed by Rear Admiral Abdullah Bin Kahmis Al-Raisi, Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman

The commander of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) counter-piracy task force met with the head of the Royal Navy of Oman in order to build ever closer links between the 30 nation naval partnership and regional maritime powers.

Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich from the Royal Thai Navy, currently commanding Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151), met with Rear Admiral Abdullah Bin Kahmis Al-Raisi, Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman, in Muscat to discuss how to enhance the already close cooperation between CTF-151 and the Royal Navy of Oman.

Accompanied by Mr Manasawee Tonyoopaiboon, the First Secretary of the Royal Thai Embassy in Oman, and Commander Komol Kongboonrak, a staff officer from CTF-151, Rear Admiral Wanich was welcomed to the Royal Navy of Oman headquarters in Muscat. On arrival, Rear Admiral Wanich expressed his appreciation to Rear Admiral Abdullah for hosting the visit and for the long-standing friendship between CMF and the Royal Navy of Oman. Further, he thanked Rear Admiral Abdullah for always welcoming CMF ships to Omani ports, usually Muscat and Salalah, as they took time out of their counter-piracy patrols to take well-earned rest and recuperation.

A key topic of discussion was the enhancement of a joint approach to maritime security in the region. Both senior officers expressed a keen desire to build on their ability to communicate, which is fundamental to strengthening the existing cooperation between CTF-151 and the Royal Navy of Oman.

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Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich and Rear Admiral Abdullah Bin Kahmis Al-Raisi discussed the general maritime situation in the region

Rear Admiral Abdullah said:

“The world nowadays is getting closer than ever before. We have to link and cooperate together. It is impossible to isolate from the international community and maritime security is no different from that. Cooperation among maritime organisations and nations is very important to secure the area in any region.”

Rear Admiral Wanich said:

“It was my great pleasure to meet with the Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman. I would like to express my sincere appreciation and gratitude to Rear Admiral Abdullah for his warm welcome. The meeting was an opportunity to strengthen the existing mutual cooperation between CMF and the Royal Navy of Oman which will ensure a better standard of maritime safety in the region.”

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Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich and Rear Admiral Abdullah Bin Kahmis Al-Raisi exchanged gifts as a sign of the friendship between CMF and the Royal Navy of Oman

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JS Harusame Shore Engagement Team visited to Local fishing vessel at port of call

A Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) warship supporting CTF-151, the counter-piracy task force, engaged with local fishermen during a port visit to Salalah, Oman, this week.

In an effort to raise awareness of the CMF mission and explain how their behavior might be misinterpreted by commercial vessels passing through their fishing grounds, the Ship’s Company of Japanese Ship Harusame handed out leaflets, written in both English and Arabic, and discussed how to avoid being mistaken for pirates.

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Local fishermen read CTF 151’s Leaflets and promised to inform others

The CTF-151 area of operations includes three of the world’s six maritime chokepoints, including the busy Bab El-Mandeb strait, which are transited by hundreds of merchant vessels every week. Although piracy-related incidents have been much reduced thanks to international organisations like CMF, NATO and the EU Naval Force, as well as independent deployers from nations committed to the safety and security of the region, merchant sailors are still wary of close contact with small boats which could pose a threat, and so the number of piracy-related false alarms remain high. As such, CTF-151’s mission includes engaging with local fishermen and other legitimate users of the seas to ensure they do not provoke a misunderstanding from the merchant vessels’ onboard security teams.

Captain Masatoshi Kashihara, commander of the 20^th Deployment of the Surface Force for Piracy Enforcement, explained that influencing one fisherman can ultimately lead to many more hearing CMF’s message:

“The fishermen promised us that they will provide copies of CTF-151’s leaflets to other vessels which are conducting fishing activities in the Gulf of Aden after they go back to their home waters. The interest in our activity was great this time, so we will conduct this kind of engagement at the next opportunity we have alongside during another port visit.”

Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich from the Royal Thai Navy and current Commander of CTF-151 said:

“In line with our engagement plan, the crew of JS Harusame conducted great activity during her port visit, influencing local fishermen’s behaviour in order to decrease false alarms in the Gulf of Aden and particularly in the Bab El-Mandeb strait. I’d like to thank JS Harusame for their effective engagement and look forward to seeing more activity in the future.”

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ITS Andrea Doria with JS Harusame in the background

Officers from the Japanese Ship (JS) Harusame, currently assigned to the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) counter-piracy task force CTF-151, took the opportunity to visit the flagship of the EU Naval Force counter-piracy mission, Italian Ship (ITS) Andrea Doria, when they found themselves operating in close proximity.

Following a high level of piracy attacks off the coast of Somalia, CMF established CTF-151 in 2009 to work with other international organisations, such as the EU Naval Force, to deter, disrupt and thwart piracy operations. Opportunities such as this meeting at sea offer a chance to share best practice and ensure that the international community can work together as effectively as possible to defeat piracy.

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The delegation from JS Harusame was warmly welcomed by the crew of ITS Andrea Doria and the EU Naval Force staff

JS Harusame, assigned to CMF and also home to the Japanese national 20^th Deployed Surface Force for Counter-Piracy, was operating in the Gulf of Aden when ITS Andrea Doria, escorting a World Food Programme ship, sailed close by. Leading the delegation from JS Harusame, Captain Masatoshi Kashihara, commander of the 20^th Deployment of the Surface Force for Piracy Enforcement, was welcomed onboard by the EU Force Commander, Rear Admiral Guido Rando, and the Commanding Officer of ITS.Andrea Doria, Captain Virdis.

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The EU Naval Force staff brief the crew from JS Harusame

Having received an update briefing on the area of operations from the EU Naval Force, the Japanese officers were given a guided a tour of ITS Andrea Doria. The discussions throughout the day focused on enhancing the already strong bonds between CMF and the EU Naval Force, and sharing best practice on conducting counter-piracy operations.

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The officers from JS Harusame were given a tour of the ITS Andrea Doria

Captain Kashihara said:

“I am very grateful for the opportunity to deepen our mutual understanding and trust so that we can work closer together to conduct counter-piracy operations in the area of operations.”

Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich from the Royal Thai Navy and Commander of CTF-151 said:

“I am pleased that officers from CTF-151 warship JS.Harusame paid a visit to CTF-465 flagship ITS Andrea Doria at sea. The meeting was beneficial, both for the ships at sea and as a means of enhancing CMF’s cooperation with EU Naval Force.”

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The delegation from JS Harusame was warmly welcomed by the crew of INS Teg

Officers from the Japanese Ship (JS) Harusame, currently assigned to the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) counter-piracy task force CTF-151, took the opportunity to meet their counterparts on Indian Naval Ship (INS) Teg when both ships were alongside in Salalah, Oman, recently.

Following a high level of piracy attacks off the coast of Somalia, CMF established CTF-151 in 2009 to work with other international coalitions such as NATO and the EU Naval Force to deter, disrupt and thwart piracy operations. Later, other nations began to deploy ships independent of these umbrella organisations, including India. Opportunities such as this meeting offer a chance to share best practice and ensure that the international community can work together as effectively as possible to defeat piracy.

Captain Masatoshi Kashihara, commander of the 20th Deployment of the Surface Force for Piracy Enforcement, and Commander Kunio Aoki, JS Harusame’s Commanding Officer, led the delegation from the Japanese ship and were warmly welcomed onboard. The officers from JS Harusame made the most of this opportunity, exchanging information about maritime security issues in the Gulf of Aden and enhancing the close relationship that already exists between naval personnel contributing to the international counter-piracy mission.

The officers were delighted to be given a tour of the ship by Captain A Y Tardesai, Commanding Officer of INS Teg, before having a series of informal discussions.

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The officers from JS Harusame were given a tour of the INS Teg

Captian Kashihara said:

“It was a great opportunity to deepen our mutual understanding and close cooperation with the crew of INS Teg, which makes eminent sense considering that we are engaged on very similar missions with the shared aim of defeating piracy in the region.”

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The officers held discussions about the counter-piracy mission

Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich from the Royal Thai Navy and Commander of CTF-151 said:

“It was very fortunate that the crew of a CTF-151 warship were able to meet with their Indian counterparts. As we are already aware, cooperation among counter piracy units at all level of command is always needed so we can achieve our counter piracy objective. The meeting between the two warships was very beneficial and we will undoubtedly see ever-closer cooperation, ultimately resulting in the success of our counter piracy efforts going forward.”

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Captain Masatoshi Kashihara from the JS Harusame in discussions with Lieutenant Commander Ali Tuna Baysal, Commanding Officer of the TCG Buyukada

Officers from Japanese warship Harusame, supporting the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) counter-piracy task force, were welcomed onboard Turkish warship TCG Buyukada recently, which is operating as part of NATO’s counter-piracy mission, when the two ships were sailing in close proximity to each other in the Gulf of Aden.

Captain Masatoshi Kashihara, commander of the 20^th Deployment of the Surface Force for Piracy Enforcement, along with officers from the Japanese ship, took the great opportunity to visit TCG Buyukada. The delegation was welcomed onboard by Lieutenant Commander Ali Tuna Baysal, the ship’s Commanding Officer, while his second in command and other officers transferred across to the Harusame. Both visits were extremely beneficial, with shared discussions about current counter-piracy issues in the area, and enhanced the already strong bonds which exist between the two counter-piracy organisations.

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The delegation from JS Harusame were warmly welcomed by the crew of Turkish warship TCG Buyukada

Following the formal meetings, Lieutenant Commander Baysal provided a guided tour of his ship and hosted a lunch.

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The Japanese delegation were treated to a traditional Turkish lunch onboard the TCG Buyukada

Captain Kashihara said:

“The visit at sea was great opportunity to see how we each do business. The exchange of information about maritime security in the area of operations is fundamental to building trust and confidence between our ships and wider organisations.”

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Captain Masatoshi Kashihara from the JS Harusame in discussions with Lieutenant Commander Ali Tuna Baysal, Commanding Officer of the TCG Buyukada

Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich from the Royal Thai Navy and Commander of CTF-151 said:

“This sort of exchange between two counter-piracy warships can lead to great benefits for both CMF and NATO. It provided an opportunity for each ship to update the other on the security situation in their area of operations, thus creating ever-better situational awareness. Clearly it is also fundamental to ensuring mutual cooperation in countering piracy together.”

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Early on, the combined Canadian/Australian CTF-150 team (back) took the lead, winning the first game

Those members of Combined Task Force 150 and Combined Task Force 151 who could be spared from their operational commitments took a short break to take part in a friendly beach volleyball competition on Monday 9 February.

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But the CTF-151 Thai team had a triumphant comeback beating CTF-150 two games to three

The competition, which reinforced the strong esprit de corps, teamwork and friendship between the Task Forces, gave the military personnel an opportunity to enjoy each other’s company outside of the work environment, where they work together in leading and executing maritime security operations.

The combined Canadian/Australian CTF-150 team initially took the lead, winning the first game, but the CTF-151 Thaï team had a triumphant comeback, winning two games out of three. In the spirit of mutual respect that characterises Combined Maritime Forces, the defeated CTF-150 team held their heads high with the gracious CTF-151 team acknowledging it was a tough battle!

Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich from the Royal Thai Navy and Commander of the victorious CTF-151 said:

“It was great to see CTF-151 and CTF-150 staff deepening their relationships over a unique occasion. Participating in a friendly sport together can only strengthen our already existing excellent mutual cooperation.”

Commodore Brian Santarpia from the Royal Canadian Navy and Commander CTF-150 added:

“All in all, we had great fun taking a break from operations with the volleyball played in good spirit and mutual respect. I am looking forward to participating in a similar activity again in the near future with CTF-151, or any other partner organisation for that matter.”

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Japanese ship Harusame, currently operating in direct support to the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) counter-piracy task force, CTF-151, welcomed a senior representative from the EU’s Capacity Building Mission Nestor (EUCAP Nestor) onboard when they came alongside in Djibouti recently.

Taking a short break from counter-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden, the ship came alongside in the North African port earlier this month. Taking the opportunity to build on the already strong ties between the EU and CMF, EUCAP Nestor representative Mr Carlos Maldonado, Acting Head of Planning and Evaluation, and Commander Iain Baxter Royal Navy, the EU Naval Force representative in EUCAP Nestor, visited the ship to share best practice between the two teams.

Welcomed onboard by Captain Masatoshi Kashihara, commander of the 20th Deployment of the Surface Force for Piracy Enforcement, Mr Carlos provided a briefing about the mission and the successes the EU team have achieved to date.

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Mr Carlos said:

“Forces like CMF and the EU Naval Force have contributed significantly to the fight against piracy, however, the piracy problem must be solved ashore, and that is what EUCAP NESTOR is doing: working with regional powers in North Africa to prevent their societies from producing pirates.”

After the meeting, the EU representatives were given a guided tour of the ship by Captain Kashihara, meeting sailors as they progressed around the destroyer.

Captain Kashihara said:

“EUCAP Nestor is carrying out such great activity ashore, working to root out the causes of piracy through capacity building and development ashore through technical and material assistance for residents and organisations in the Horn of Africa.”

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Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich from the Royal Thai Navy and current Commander CTF-151 said:

“This was a great opportunity for officers from a CTF-151 warship to meet EUCAP Nestor. These sort of meetings can really benefit each team by allowing us to share best practice and enhance our already strong cooperation which is one of the main factors for the success of our joint counter-piracy effort.”

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Commodore Asif Hameed Siddiqui SI(M) of the Pakistan Navy accepts command of CTF-151 from Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich of the Royal Thai Navy

Commodore Asif Hameed Siddiqui SI(M) from the Pakistan Navy has assumed command of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) counter-piracy operations from Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich of the Royal Thai Navy at a ceremony in Bahrain on 26 February 2015. The ceremony marked Pakistan’s sixth command of Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151).

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Rear Admiral Pakorn Wanich gives thanks to those who have contributed to his counter-piracy mission

Rear Admiral Wanich, who has led CTF-151 since 25 November 2014, said:

“My command tenure of CTF 151 comes to an end today and I would like to take the opportunity to express my sincere thanks to CMF and all supporters that have contributed so valuably to our counter piracy mission. We could not have achieved the success we did without the staff officers from Pakistan, the Netherlands, Japan and Jordan who have been embedded in CTF-151 from the start.”

Rear Admiral Wanich, who returns to Thailand to become the Commander of the Amphibious and Combat Service Support Squadron, added:

“In my relatively short command period I have seen the level of cooperation and coordination in securing freedom of navigation and the safety of commercial shipping through the operational area grow. Tasked to be the Gulf of Aden and Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor coordinator and then taking on the counter-piracy coordinator role has brought Thailand’s CMF command to the forefront of strategic development for this very important mission, but there is, as always, still room for improvement.”

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Vice Admiral John W Miller addresses the CTF-151 Change of Command ceremony

Vice Admiral John W Miller, the Commander of CMF, presided over the handover:

“We are here today to celebrate the passing of command from one great leader to another and from one nation to another. And with that comes the passing of great responsibility, authority and accountability. Ceremonies like this, allow us to formally recognise the accomplishments of the commander and fellow sailor.”

Noting the achievements of CTF-151 under Rear Admiral Wanich’s leadership, Vice Admiral Miller added:

“The remarkable success that you and your sailors have achieved, and your commitment to promoting freedom of navigation for all ships in this vital area are much appreciated, but by no means surprising. After all, the word Thai itself means “free.” Among your most impressive achievements of the last three months has been the coordination of focused operations in the Bab-el-Mandeb strait to reduce the amount of false alarms concerning piracy attacks. By reducing the amount of false alarms, the real threats of piracy are always treated with the urgency that is needed and millions of dollars are saved by maritime forces that respond to emergencies in this region.”

Turning to the incoming team from Pakistan, Vice Admiral Miller highlighted Commodore Asif’s planning and coordination experience, noting his ability to deliver in a high-tempo environment, which was proven during his previous role as the Commander of the Pakistan Navy’s 25 Destroyer Squadron.

“Commodore, with your vast experience and wisdom, Combined Task Force 151 will continue to excel and we welcome you, your wife and your children back to our Combined Maritime Forces family and to Bahrain.”

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Commodore Asif Hameed Siddiqui SI(M) addresses the CTF-151 Change of Command ceremony as the new counter-piracy Combined Task Force Commander

Commodore Asif, who previously served in CMF as the Chief of Staff to a previous Pakistani command of CTF-150, the counter-terrorism and maritime security task force, thanked Rear Admiral Wanich for ensuring a professional and orderly transition period and noted how important the work of CTF-151 is in protecting maritime trade and freedom of movement for seafaring nations.

He said:

“We are passing through uncertain and unpredictable times, where diverse threats are posed to the seagoing community on the high seas. Of these, piracy, although low at the moment, continues to present an intricate and extraordinary threat and still impacts energy security, freedom of navigation, and global security and stability. But no one nation alone can resolve this menace, as piracy is a shared challenge which can only be addressed through collaborative and comprehensive international efforts. During the command, I shall continue to deter and disrupt piracy while maintaining a flexible approach in coordination with CMF.”

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Vice Admiral John W Miller congratulates Commodore Asif Hameed Siddiqui SI(M) on his acceptance of the command of CTF-151

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Commander Combined Task Force 151 (CCTF151) Commodore (Cdre) Asif Hameed Siddique visited United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 07^th to 12^th April for a Key Leadership Engagement (KLE).

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CCTF-151 visited Colonel Staff Abdullah Sultan AL Khozaimi Deputy Director of Naval Operations and Training based at the UAE Armed Force Head Quarters in Dubai

During his visit CCTF-151 met with Colonel Staff Abdullah Sultan AL Khozaimi Deputy Director of Naval Operations and Training based at the UAE Armed Force Head Quarters in Dubai, Commander (Cdr) Frank Fahnrich of the Federal German Ship (FGS) BAYREN of Combined Task force 465 (CTF465) European Naval Forces, Mr Edward Hobart, Her Majesty’s Consul General to Dubai and then attended the Maritime Information Exchange Vessel Operators Meeting (MIEVOM).

Combined Task Force 151 (CTF151) exists in order to deter and disrupt piracy, protect maritime vessels and secure freedom of navigation for the benefit of all. In conjunction with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR), CTF 151 helps to patrol the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor (IRTC) and recommends best practice methods for the avoidance of piracy to merchant shipping.

During the KLE, Cdre Siddique discussed the importance of ongoing Counter Piracy operations by Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) in support of the Maritime Community and World Trade. He also highlighted the achievements made by counter-piracy forces in furthering the confidence of merchant ships throughout the region. Cdre Siddique then reiterated the need to maintain the support to the future of counter-piracy missions by all CMF EUNAVFOR and NATO members. Colonel Staff Khozaimi stated “The UAE confirm their support to act against counter-piracy and to maintain the flow of legitimate trade throughout the region”

During his visit to FGS BAYERN, Cdre Siddique met with Cdr Frank Fahnrich, where they discussed the future of counter-piracy operations across the region and the mutual interests and mission aims.

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Cdre Siddique meets Cdr Frank Fahnrich of the FGS BAYREN of CTF465 European Naval Forces

At MIEVOM, CCTF-151 met with representatives of the Maritime Business Community. Moreover he addressed the maritime security community by saying “There was a continued need for ongoing piracy assessment and to meet the challenges faced by planning implementers” He went onto say that there was a needed for adherence to Best Management Practices 4 in High Risk Areas to help counter any future Counter-Piracy approaches.

Finally, CCTF-met with Her Majesty’s Counsel General, Mr Edward Hobart, and discussed the current security scenario in the region, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Organisation activities and the existing and future maritime threats.

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CTF-151 and Her Majesty’s Consul General Edward Hobart seen here exchanging official gifts

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Commander Combined Task Force 151 (CCTF150) Commodore Asif Hameed Siddique recently visited the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for a Key Leadership Engagement (KLE) to continue the interoperability of Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) Nations to Maritime security operations throughout the Region. During his visit CCTF-151 met Key Leadership of the Royal Saudi Naval Force (RNSF), Coast Guard and Special Naval Forces.

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CCTF151 Cdre Asif Hameed Siddique exchanging official gifts to RSNF Commander V/Adm Abdullah Al-Sultan.

CTF 151 exists in order to deter and disrupt piracy, protecting maritime vessels of any nationality and securing freedom of navigation for the benefit of all. Counter-Piracy is a separate and discrete form of maritime security operation supported by the Combined Maritime Forces. Piracy is a widespread illegal activity which threatens the passage of thousands of merchant vessels passing through the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and the Somalia Basin. CTF 151’s Area of Operation (AOO) encompasses an area of 1.1 million square miles in the Gulf of Aden and Somali Basin.

The Gulf region is covered separately by CTF-152, which is currently commanded by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

This whole area is a vital artery of world trade that includes the main shipping routes from the Far East to Europe and the US with over 23,000 shipping movements per year. Over one third of the world’s oil passes through the Middle East waterways each year.

During this KLE, Commodore Siddique said “Exchanging views on the contributions and support to Counter Piracy elements in the Gulf of Aden helps promote greater understanding of operations from both a National level and in CMF as a whole.” He also referenced the benefits of working together with

Commander RSNF Vice Admiral Abdullah Al-Sultan, Eastern Naval Command Rear Admiral Fahad Al-Gufaily, Western Naval Command Rear Admiral Saeed Al-Zahrani.

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CCTF151 Cdre Asif Hameed Siddique discussing Maritime Security with Commander East Fleet R/Adm Fahad Al-Gufaily

Commander CTF-151 interacted with Commander Special Operation Force (SOF) Rear Admiral Saleh Abu Duriahem and his men of the SOF when visited the Special Operation Boats where he was given an on sight brief about the role and objective of SOF’s.

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CCTF151 Cdre Asif Hameed Siddique with members of West Fleet RSNF

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Commander Combined Task Force 151 (CCTF151) Commodore Asif Hameed Siddique discussed mutual operability with the Bahrain Defence Forces on 26^th April 2015. During his visit, CCTF-151 met Commander-in-Chief of the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF), Field Marshal Sheikh Khalifa Bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Commander of the Royal Bahrain Naval Force Brigadier General Khalifa Bin Abdullah Khalifa and Coast Guard Commander Brigadier Ala’a Abdullah Siyadi.

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Commander CTF 151 Commodore Asif Hameed met with Field Marshal Sheikh Khalifa Bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Commander in Chief of the Bahrain Defence Force

During his visit, the Commodore highlighted the role and efforts being put in by CTF-151 in curbing piracy in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Somalia. He also highlighted the achievements that Combined Maritime Forces and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries to which Bahrain belongs have together acquired in support of international maritime security and counter terrorism patrols in the Gulf, Arabian Sea and Red Sea.

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Commodore Asif Hameed and Brigadier General Khalifa Bin Abdullah Khalifa, Commander of the Royal Bahrain Naval Force, exchanged official gifts as a sign of friendship between CMF and the Royal Bahrain Naval Force

Commodore Asif Hameed also met with Brigadier General Khalifa Bin Abdullah Khalifa, Commander of the Royal Bahrain Naval Force and Coast Guard Commander Brigadier Ala’a Abdullah Siyadi. CCTF-151 stressed the need for close working relations between Bahrain Defence Force (BDF) and Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) in order to support various Maritime Security Operations in the region.

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Commander of CTF 151 met Brigadier General Alaa Abdullah Siyadi Commander Coast Guard

CTF 151 exists in order to deter and disrupt piracy, protecting maritime vessels and securing freedom of navigation for the benefit of all. In conjunction with the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) and the European Union Naval Forces (EUNAVFOR), CTF 151 helps to patrol the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor (IRTC) and recommends best practice methods for the avoidance of piracy to merchant shipping.

The visit enhanced the existing bond of friendship between CMF and BDF. Commodore Asif Hameed appreciated the friendliness and the warmth of their host. He added that CMF looks forward to continuing to work together.

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Japan made history yesterday, 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.

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Rear Admiral Ito speaking at the CTF151 CoC

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.

At the change of command ceremony, Rear Admiral Hiroshi Ito explained the significance of the event, stating, “Over the past 63 years, the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force has developed into a word class navy. With being a capable navy, comes great responsibility. Through the counter-piracy mission tasked to CTF-151, Japan will take a more proactive role for global peace and stability.”

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Cdre Sidiqque handing over to RAdm Ito at the CTF151 CoC

“We are at a crossroads” he continued, “it is the first time ever for us Japanese to take command of a multinational force in the post war period”.

Japan has, over the years, provided a significant contribution to international counter-piracy efforts. Rear Admiral Hiroshi Ito stated, “we have been deploying two destroyers and two P-3C Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft in the Combined Maritime Forces Area of Responsibility without a single day gap for six years.”

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CTF151 CoC ceremony Rear Admiral Ito

Commodore Siddique, the outgoing CCTF151 commented at the ceremony “we were privileged to command, control and support ships from CMF partner nations. I appreciate the outstanding performance of ships under our command that undertook their assigned tasks remarkably well, with perseverance and professionalism”.

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CTF151 CoC RAdm Ito, VAdm Miller and Cdre Siddique

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.

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Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 has conducted a joint operation with partners from across the international community, both military and non-military, aimed at encouraging the maritime community to work together to promote legitimate trade and fair use of the sea in the Horn of Africa region.

The operation, coordinated by CTF151, was a multinational, multiagency operation involving ships and aircraft from 5 nations, the UK Maritime Trade Organisation and the European Union Naval force, (EU NAVFOR). The aim was to encourage cooperation and communication amongst all maritime users in the region, including fishermen and merchant vessels operating in the area.

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 Caption: An officer onboard JS AKIZUKI conducts a Maritime Awareness Call with a merchant vessel in the Gulf of Aden.

The Commander of CTF 151, Rear Admiral Hiroshi Ito, said: “This operation shows the commitment of the international community to the region. A great deal of work is being done to build capacity for regional maritime security but, until that work is done, the threat of piracy will remain. The international community is working together to help deliver a stable and secure environment for the maritime community.” He added: “We encourage all members of the maritime community whether fishermen or merchant vessels to work together, share information, and report suspicious activity. By working together we can protect legitimate trade and fair use of the sea.”

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Caption: JS AKIZUKI taking part in the operation

Ships and aircraft from Pakistan, South Korea, Spain, USA and Japan took part in the operation which took place over 7 days covering areas in the Somali Basin, Gulf of Aden and Gulf of Oman.

Japan is leading CTF 151 for three months. Other nations working in direct support to the Japanese-led headquarters include Australia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Thailand, Turkey, UK, and USA.

Images captured by JDS AKIZUKI, Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force.

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Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 celebrated Victory and Turkish Armed Forces Day on board the Turkish Navy Flagship TCG Gemlik (F-492) on 30 August. The ceremony was held in the Arabian Sea almost 3000 nautical miles away from home.

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Rear Admiral Ayhan Bay congratulating Senior Pilot LT. Gokhan Ozunlu on his new rank.

This was followed by a promotion ceremony. Commander CTF 151 Captain Ayhan Bay was promoted to Rear Admiral, along with 30 officers and petty officers from the crew of TCG Gemlik (F-492) who received their new ranks. According to national law, promotions to a higher rank in the Turkish Armed Forces are conducted every year on 30 August.

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CTF 151Chief of Staff Captain Ilker Ozkan congratulating Amphibious Team Commander LTJG. Onur Karaman on his promotion.

Currently, Turkish led CTF 151 is conducting counter piracy operations in the Combined Maritime Forces area of operation.

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Rear Admiral Ayhan Bay, Commander Combined Task Force (CCTF) 151 recently visited Djibouti with his flagship TCG Gemlik. Taking a short break from counter-piracy operations in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden, TCG Gemlik came alongside in the Horn of Africa’s prominent port.

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Turkish Amphibious Team onboard TCG Gemlik, conducting training together with their counterparts from the Djiboutian Navy.

During the busy port visit to Djibouti, Rear Admiral Bay called on the Defence Minister His Excellency Hassan Darar Houffaneh; the Djibouti Armed Forces Deputy Commander Brigadier General Daher Ali Mohamed and the Coast Guard Commander Captain Wais Bogoreh.

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Djibouti Defence Minister Hassan Darar Houffaneh with Rear Admiral Bay

During his visits Rear Admiral Bay thanked Djiboutian officials for assigning a National Liaison Officer to Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) Command and discussed issues related to counter-piracy.

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Djibouti Armed Forces Deputy Commander Brigadier General Daher Ali Mohamed with Rear Admiral Bay

Rear Admiral Bay also visited the Japanese Deployment Ground Force for Counter-Piracy Enforcement; the Deployment Air Force for Counter-Piracy Enforcement and the Spanish Air Force maritime patrol reconnaissance aircraft detachment.

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CCTF 151 Rear Admiral Bay visits the Deployment Air Force for Counter-Piracy Enforcement (DAPE), #ReadyTogether.

He took time to visit the United Nations World Food Program Director and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Djibouti, where he took the opportunity to talk over immigrant handling processes in case of a ‘Safety of Life at Sea’ situation.

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Rear Admiral Bay visits Japanese Deployment Ground Force for Counter-Piracy Enforcement Commander Colonel Shinji Furusho and Deployment Air Force for Counter-Piracy Enforcement Captain Koichi Kitahara (from left to right, clockwise: Commanding Officer TCG Gemlik, the Republic of Turkey Mogadishu Armed Forces Attache Captain Ismail Ipekci, CCTF 151 Rear Admiral Bay, Colonel Shinji Furusho)

CTF 151 is a multi-national Task Force consisting of TCG Gemlik; the Pakistan Navy Ship Aslat; the Japanese Navy Ships Akizuki and Sawagiri and the Republic of Korea Ship Chungmugong Yi Sunshin. Commanding this multinational task force since 27 August, Rear Admiral Bay said: “I am very proud of my sailors, petty officers and officers on each unit under my command, who serve with devotion and are thousands of miles away from their homes in support of maritime security and prosperity in this part of the world.”

In addition to the visits the Turkish Amphibious Team and the Firefighting Team onboard the Flagship TCG Gemlik successfully conducted training together with their counterparts from the Djiboutian Navy in order to contribute to regional capacity building.

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Rear Admiral Bay visits Djiboutian Coast Guard Commander Captain Wais Omar Bogoreh

CTF 151 staff and TCG Gemlik crew also had the opportunity to visit the Daryel Orphanage in Djibouti.

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CTF 151 staff and TCG Gemlik crew visited Djiboutian children in the Daryel Orphanage

The Turkish-led CTF 151 will continue to conduct counter piracy patrols in the area of operation under command of CMF which is a multinational naval partnership of 30 nations. CMF exists to promote security, stability and prosperity across approximately 2.5 million square miles of international waters, which encompass some of the world’s most important shipping lanes.

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Rear Admiral Ayhan Bay, Commander Combined Task Force (CCTF) 151, recently visited the Oman Coast Guard Headquarters in Muscat to enhance mutual cooperation and understanding with the Omani Coast Guard.

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Rear Admiral Ayhan Bay, Commander Combined Task Force 151, visited the Oman Coast Guard Headquarters

The Commander of the Omani Coast Guard Brigadier General Bader Khalfan Al Zadgali briefs Rear Admiral Bay at the Omani Coast Guard Headquarters in Muscat. Rear Admiral Bay then returned to his flagship TCG Gemlik to continue counter piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden.

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The Commander of the Omani Coast Guard, Brigadier General Bader Khalfan Al Zadgali, briefs Rear Admiral
Bay.

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Rear Admiral Ayhan Bay, Commander Combined Task Force (CCTF) 151 recently visited Mombasa, Kenya with his flagship TCG Gemlik.

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The Amphibious Attack Team Exercise on TCG Gemlik

The flagship TCG Gemlik (F-492) was received at the port by Mombasa Governor Ali Joho, Senator Hassan Omar and the Turkish Ambassador to Kenya Ms Deniz Eke, along with coast region legislators.

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CCTF151, Mombasa Governor Ali Joho, Senator Hassan Omar and the Turkish Ambassador to Kenya Ms. Deniz Eke, along with coast region legislators visit TCG Gemlik

They were welcomed on board for lunch, followed by a presentation on the ship’s capabilities and an Amphibious Attack Team exercise display.

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The Amphibious Attack Team Exercise on TCG Gemlik

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The Amphibious Attack Team Leader describes the equipment used in the exercise to Mombasa Governor Ali Joho.

During the port visit to Mombasa, Rear Admiral Bay called on the Chief of the Kenyan Navy, Major General Levi Franklin Mghalu and the Director General of the Kenya Maritime Authority Mr Cosmas Cherop.

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Rear Admiral Bay visits the Kenya Maritime Authority(from left to right, the Republic of Turkey Nairobi Naval Attache Captain Hakan Tolunguc,CCTF 151 Rear Admiral Ayhan Bay, Head of Commercial Shipping John Omingo , AG. Director General Mr. Cosmas Cherop, Head of Maritime Safety Wilfred Kagimbi, Commanding Officer TCG Gemlik, CTF 151 Battle Watch Captain Lieutenant Commander Tuncer Erdogan and Head of Public Affairs and Human Source Lina Jamwa.

He also took time to visit the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre. Twelve Kenyan Navy Personnel also took the opportunity to visit TCG Gemlik (F-492), where they received a ship tour and a presentation on counter-piracy.

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The Chief of the Kenyan Navy, Major General Levi Franklin Mghalu with Rear Admiral Bay

The Turkish-led CTF 151 will continue to conduct counter-piracy patrols in the area of operation under the command of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), which is a multinational naval partnership of 30 nations. CMF exists to promote security, stability and prosperity across approximately 2.5 million square miles of international waters, which encompass some of the world’s most important shipping lanes.

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Kenyan Navy Personel on the bridge

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Rear Admiral Bay with staff from the Security Regional Marine Rescue and Coordination Centre

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CCTF 151 Rear Admiral Ayhan Bay; the Commander of TCG Gemlik Commander Mehmet Elyurek  and ship’s company from TCG Gemlik visited the Bee Hive Orphanage in Mombasa during their recent visit to Kenya.

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Rear Admiral Ayhan Bay, Commander Mehmet Elyurek and ship’s company from TCG Gemlik with children and staff from the Bee Hive Orphanage in Mombasa, during their recent visit to Kenya.

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The doctor onboard TCG Gemik, Lieutenant Junior grade Deniz Aktaş conducts health surveys at the orphanage with Petty Officer Osman Kul.

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TCG Gemlik Supply officer, Lieutenant Junior Grade Eda Nur Karaman at the Bee Hive Orphanage

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Rear Admiral Ayhan Bay and ship’s company from TCG Gemlik at  the Bee Hive Orphanage in Mombasa during their recent visit to Kenya.

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Rear Admiral Ayhan Bay, Commander Combined Task Force (CCTF) 151 met with Captain Takeshi Yoshioka, Commander of the Third Escort Division of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force in the Gulf of Aden on-board the TCG Gemlik.

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Rear Admiral Ayhan Bay, CCTF 151 met with Captain Takeshi Yoshioka, Commander of the Third Escort Division of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force.

During the visit staff members from JS Suzunami met up with their counterparts on the TCG Gemlik to discuss counter-piracy. Rear Admiral Bay said: “We are operating in this part of the world in order to secure the maritime environment and help contribute to the stability and prosperity of the region.”

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JS Suzunami sails past TCG Gemlik watched by Rear Admiral Bay

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