CTF-151 Commander Commodore (Cdre) Abdul Munib SI (M) recently held a video teleconference with the Commander of EUNAVFOR’s Task Force-465 (TF-465), Commodore Diogo Arroteia.

While Cdre Munib was at CMF HQ in Bahrain, Cdre Arroteia was operating from the Spanish frigate Reina Sofía, as they actively conduct counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia. Cdre Munib thanked Cdre Arroteia for his continuous support in providing TF-465 ships and maritime patrol aircraft; “We have been supporting each other well out at sea to maintain our force flow and respond to maritime security events. We need to maintain this coordination in the future as well.”

“Together, we need to keep our guard up for any suspicious activity out at sea and relay information to all stakeholders; the area of operations is big, and working in collaboration is key to conducting effective patrols independently,” he added.

After assuming command of the CTF-151 on behalf of the Pakistan Navy in December 2020, Cdre Munib is keen to build on the relationship between the two groups, suggesting future joint Focused Operations to further enhance interoperability and build capacity through shared training. This partnership-led way of working feeds directly into the CTF 151 mission to deter, disrupt and suppress piracy at sea, and send a powerful message of reassurance to the merchant maritime community.

Additionally, Cdre Arroteia highlighted a new TF-465 mandate. Under this new arrangement, the non-executive tasks of TF-465 will include countering illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing; and further activity countering drugs, weapons, and charcoal trafficking. Executive tasks will include countering illegal drugs and weapons trafficking. Cdre Munib acknowledged that these adjustments are a welcome improvement and important steps to increase maritime domain awareness, resulting in a more efficient counter-piracy mission.

A large multinational counter-piracy operation has been conducted by the Pakistan-led Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 in the Gulf of Aden.

Focused Operation (FO) TAHAFFUZ was held from 26 February to 5 March, 2021, and was supported by assets from nine different nations with a shared objective to protect global maritime commerce.

“FO TAHAFFUZ was conducted to support Combined Maritime Forces (CMF)’s overall campaign objectives of deterring suspected pirates from re-commencing their operations in the region,” said Chief of Staff to Commander CTF 151, Captain Adnan Laghari of Pakistan Navy. “Although the FO is now concluded, we still encourage all merchantmen plying through the Gulf of Aden to keep following the Best Management Practice BMP5 guidelines, and using the Internationally Recognized Transit Corridor for their safety.”

In addition to Pakistan Navy, the US Navy, Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force, Hellenic Navy, Spanish Navy, and European Union Naval Force Somalia (Operation ATALANTA) all supplied their assets to the operation. The Canadian detachment of Unclassified Remote-Sensing Situational Awareness system also supported the Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance effort and contributed Pattern of Life assessments to the task force.

There was also a significant effort from the Djibouti and Yemen Navies and Coast Guards and the Royal Navy of Oman, who contacted merchant vessels sailing through the area, alerting them to the presence of warships through Maritime Awareness Calls.

Finally, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) office in Dubai, Marine Operation Centre in Djibouti, Maritime Security Centre – Horn of Africa, Maritime Security Centre at Oman and Joint Maritime Information Coordination Centre in Pakistan all provided additional contributions to the operation, alerting merchant shipping to expect an increase in military activity and ensuring swift sharing of information between all maritime stakeholders.

And the military activity was not just limited to the sea; maritime patrol aircraft and helicopters from both CMF and EUNAVFOR provided overwatch across the Gulf of Aden and off the Somali coastline. 

“The goal of FO TAHAFFUZ is to show presence, reassure merchant and fishery communities and improve understanding of local Patterns of Life. The FO has significantly enhanced interoperability between regional counter-piracy forces, and hence contributed to build regional counter-piracy capability.” Commodore Abdul Munib of Pakistan Navy, Commander of CTF-151 said.

Through constant cooperation between CMF nations and partners, CTF-151 has for many years helped to maintain the integrity of vital lines of communication and successfully mitigated the risk of piracy in the area of Gulf of Aden and Somali Basin, especially through strategic waterways such as the Bab-el-Mandeb.

The Gulf of Aden is of immense importance to maritime trade as the main shipping lane between the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. With the monsoon season fading, and sea conditions becoming favourable for sailors, there has been a large increase in the number of small fishing vessels, skiffs and dhows in operation close to the coastlines of neighbouring states.

Pakistan’s Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi visited Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) headquarters in Bahrain, March 15.

During the visit he met with Commodore Abdul Munib SI (M), the Pakistan Navy Commander of CTF-151, and Royal Navy Commodore Ed Ahlgren, deputy commander of CMF, to discuss Pakistan’s contribution to the enduring CMF partnership, and the ongoing success in deterring piracy from the Gulf of Aden and the Gulf of Oman.

In the past year, there have been no successful piracy attempts on merchant vessels in the CTF-151 area of operations; no mean feat given the vast area of water covered.

“CMF works so well because of the relationship between strategic partners, regional forces and international organizations to deliver maritime security operations and to build maritime security across the region,” said Ahlgren. “This in turn will benefit the overall commercial and military shipping industry by helping to safeguard these waters from illicit behaviour on the high seas.”

Pakistan assumed command of CTF-151 for the 9th time in December 2020, marking the twentieth command tenure by the country’s naval force; “The Chief of Naval Staff visit underpins Pakistan’s continued commitment and resolve to join hands with coalition partners against common threats,” said Munib.

Recent endeavours, including the Focused Operation Tahaffuz which took place at the beginning of March, are an ideal example of the coalition model at work. This saw nine different nations participating in large-scale joint maritime and air patrols all aimed at improving interoperability whilst deterring illicit activity.

Commander of Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, Commodore Abdul Munib SI (M) visited the Chief of Staff of the Sultan’s Armed Forces, Vice Admiral Abdullah Bin Khamis Al Raisi, and the Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman, Rear Admiral Saif Bin Nassir Al Rahbi in Oman. 

The meetings, held on 8^th April under strict COVID guidelines, included talks around future capacity building and counter-piracy operations in and around the Gulf of Aden.  All parties were keen to provide complete support for CMF operations.

Commander of CTF-151, Commodore Abdul Munib (L) and the Commander of Royal Navy of Oman, Rear Admiral Saif Bin Nassir Al Rahbi (R) discuss mutual interests, maritime security and enhancing cooperation and collaboration between CMF and the Royal Navy of Oman. (Photo: Combined Task Force 151).

During their visit, RAdm Al Rahbi praised Cdre Munib on his team’s successful conduct of their recent Focused Operation (FO) Tahaffuz, which saw assets from nine nations coming together to deter piracy and reassure the maritime community. “Participation of RNOV Khassab in Tahaffuz has helped us in refining new tactics and procedures, and we intend to continue our mutually-beneficial support to CMF operations,” said RAdm Al Rahbi. Focused Operations like this one are a core component of CTF-151 activity, and are an enduring example of CMF’s commitment to maintain order at sea.

Commander of CTF-151, Cdre Abdul Munib (Center) and the Omani Chief of Staff, Sultan’s Armed Forces VAdm Abdullah Bin Khamis Al Raisi (R) exchange souvenirs (Photo: Combined Task Force 151).

“I thank you for participation of your ship in FO Tahaffuz. This interaction gave us an opportunity to contribute to RNO capacity building during counter piracy operations. We can see a clear improvement in our efforts to streamline the communication procedures between RNO ships and CMF HQ”, said Cdre Munib. “We encourage the RNO to continue to participate in CMF operations with surface assets, especially within Oman’s Exclusive Economic Zone”, he added.

Following their meeting, Munib received a tour of the Oman Maritime Security Center (MSC). The MSC is responsible for command and control of maritime security operations in the Omani maritime zone, fighting organized crime, illegal trading, piracy, maritime terrorism, smuggling, providing protection of fisheries and Search and Rescue support. MSC also shares data with a number of international maritime security agencies monitoring threats to maritime security. 

Commander of CTF-151, Cdre Abdul Munib (Center) and his staff receive a brief from Maritime Security Center officials on its roles and tasks in maritime security operations, search and rescue, and maritime environment protection. (Photo: Combined Task Force 151).

“I convey my appreciation, on behalf of Vice Admiral Sam Paparo, Commander CMF, for all the support given by MSC during CMF operations. By working together, we have managed to suppress piracy and keep the waters safe for all legitimate mariners,” said Cdre Munib. “We need to ensure timely exchange of intelligence to reduce the space of maneuver for illicit actors and pirates in the maritime domain. Through this information sharing, we also update the pattern of life data at CMF, which allows us to deploy our assets in the right place in a timely manner”, he added.

Earlier in the same day, Munib held a separate visit with the Director General of the Royal Oman Police Coast Guard (ROP-CG). Brigadier General (Engineer) Ali Bin Saif Al Muqbali discussed capacity building, legal finish and information sharing at length.

Commander of CTF-151, Cdre Abdul Munib (L) and Director General Royal Oman Police Coast Guard, Brig. Gen. Ali Bin Saif Al Muqbali exchange gifts. (Photo: Combined Task Force 151).

(L to R:) Director General Royal Oman Police Coast Guard, Brig. Gen. Ali Bin Saif Al Muqbali, Commander CTF-151 Cdre Abdul Munib, Pakistan Defense Attaché Capt. Kashif, visit the Royal Oman Police Coast Guard HQ. (Photo: Combined Task Force 151).

Though not a CMF member nation, Oman offers a huge amount of assistance to CMF by providing basing and logistic facilities to ships at Duqm, Salalah and Muscat, as well as overflight for aircraft. Oman’s geographical position gives the nation a great understanding of maritime security issues in the Arabian Gulf, through the Straits of Hormuz and into the Indian Ocean.

The Japanese warship Ariake will be heading home after completing five months of counter-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden. Led by Commander Naritaka Ezawa, JS Ariake, a Murasame Class Destroyer, has conducted safeguarding duties for hundreds of merchant ships on their transit through the region. Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 Commander, Commodore Abdul Munib SI (M) has offered special thanks to the Ariake for her support to the Task Force’s important mission.

During her time in support of CTF-150, JS Ariake participated in additional focused operations to deter piracy activities. The Ariake crew has also engaged in several Passage Exercises, demonstrating their ability to operate alongside warships from other nations.  The ability to operate together, despite a potential language barrier, is key to the success of CTF-151 in combating piracy. The more warships use a common set of standard operating procedures, the greater the flexibility provided at the command level within CTF-151 Headquarters in Bahrain. This also encourages better cohesion and understanding when multinational operations are conducted.

The Japan Maritime Self Defense Force has deployed another destroyer, the JS Setogiri, to continue the vital work to secure freedom of navigation for the millions of tons of merchant shipping that transits through the region annually. “JS Ariake’s dedication and professionalism have been essential for successful anti-piracy operations. Thank you very much for supporting CTF-151 in so many ways,” said Cdre Munib.

Cdre Munib welcomed JS Setogiri and Commander Shinya Sato on joining CTF-151 and extended his thanks to the JMSDF. “Their contribution to this international effort ensures that global maritime trade is not impacted by the threat of piracy activities, especially in the Gulf of Aden,” said Cdre Munib.

The last successful attack in the High-Risk Area was in 2017, however the situation in Somalia remains unstable. The threat of famine, potential terrorist activity and the Covid-19 pandemic are all destabilizing factors and present a risk to the security of the region.

The international community have a presence in the Gulf of Aden to prevent piracy returning to the region.  Both Ariake and Setogiri are significant contributors to this mission.

Combined Maritime Forces’ counter-piracy task force commander, Commodore Abdul Munib SI (M), and the commander of Pakistan’s Navy flotilla in the region, Commodore Khan Muhamad Asif SI (M) visited the U.S. Coast Guard Patrol Force Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA) squadron training facility in Bahrain.

The Commodores and their teams, including the Commanding Officers of Pakistan ships PNS Alamgir and PNS Azmat received a briefing from PATFORSWA Commanding Officer Captain Willie L. Carmichael before touring the engineering warehouse and the Maritime Engagement Team facility. 

The tour included the unique ‘Ship in a Box’ – a 1:1-scale mockup of a dhow inside an environmentally-controlled facility, used to train ships’ boarding teams on Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) procedures. The facility also contains mock up containers of a merchant vessel on which similar procedures are practiced.

“This facility provides an excellent opportunity for CMF member nations to train their crew for Maritime Security and Counter Piracy Operations,” said Cdre Munib.

“The highest standard of professionalism displayed by the CMF and U.S. Coast Guard boarding teams during maritime security operations at sea is a testament to the necessity of such a world class training facility,” he added.

Enhancing interoperability between partner nations remains a key area of focus at the Combined Maritime Forces. Training facilities such as the Maritime Engagement Team facility at PATFORSWA provides task force command teams with an opportunity to standardize procedures and techniques for Maritime Security Operations across a group of partner nations.

Commander of CTF 151 (CCTF 151), Rear Admiral Nejat Inanir held a Zoom call with Rear Admiral Abdullah Bin Kamis Bin Abdullah Al Raisi, Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman (CRNO) to discuss future combined efforts around the Gulf of Aden.

Discussions were held between the two commanders to ensure that future counter-piracy operations are as successful as the recent Focused Operation Shamal, which saw forces from Oman, Djiouti, Pakistan, the Republic of Korea and Japan participate in a large coordinated maritime operation to deter piracy and reassure merchant shipping.

Rear Admiral Inanir said: “I pass on my thanks and appreciation on behalf of CMF for all the support given by the Royal Navy of Oman. By working together, we have managed to suppress piracy and keep the waters safe for all legitimate mariners. Knowing that Oman will assist with future operations is a very welcome statement of intent to keep it that way for the future.”

A key effort has been in building up a database primarily of fishing traffic around the Gulf of Aden, which will help identify suspicious piracy activity early and therefore be able to coordinate warship patrols to the right location in a timely manner.

Rear Admiral Al Raisi said: “Your contribution to maritime security in the region is a welcome one, and we thank you for all your support. The Royal Navy of Oman will always be glad to help support our friends here to enhance cooperation, bringing mutual benefits to us.”

Turkey will hand over command of CTF151 to Pakistan this month, following a successful six months of delivering counter piracy operations primarily in the Gulf of Aden.

Rear Adm. Nejat Inanir of the Turkish Navy has formally handed-over command of Combined Maritime Forces’ (CMF) Combined Task Force 151 to Commodore Abdul Munib of the Pakistani Navy, in a special ceremony held at the US Navy’s NAVCENT headquarters in Bahrain, Dec. 9.

This concludes Turkey’s sixth command of CTF-151.

Formed in 2009, CTF-151 this maritime defence force is primarily dedicated to the deterrence, disruption and suppression of piracy and armed robbery at sea, and to engage with regional and other partners to strengthen relevant capabilities in the Gulf of Aden, Somali Basin and the Indian Ocean.

RAdm Inanir praised the international nature of the Task Force, citing this as the main reason for its ongoing success. “We have a truly international blend of staff from 10 countries, each bringing their own culture and experience to our task force,” he said.

“The wide range of strengths and different approaches to operations is one of the many things that makes us strong and I look forward to the future with great optimism […] Clear from the start of my command was the critical joint effort between the military and maritime industry in countering the determined pirate.  The SHADE [Shared Awareness and De-confliction] conference allowed us to re-enforce the importance of sharing information to increase risk awareness,” RAdm Inanir added.

Vice Adm. Samuel Paparo, Commander of Combined Maritime Forces, who presided over the ceremony, reflected on the success of CTF-151 under RAdm Inanir’s leadership.

“Focus Operation SHAMAL was a resounding success, not only meeting the mission requirements of deterring piracy through a massive influx of air and sea assets, but also providing a valuable opportunity to bolster our relationships with our partnerships,” said Vice. Adm. Paparo.  “This operation, made more difficult due to health and asset constraints, not only deterred piracy and provided the necessary practice for our allies, but most certainly increased our partnership capabilities well into the future… Turkey should be exceptionally proud of your service to the stability of this region.”

Closing his speech, RAdm Inanir spoke warmly of his successor; “Commodore Munib, as I hand over to you, I wish you and your bright and eager staff all the best during your tenure, and very much look forward to hearing of your great success in command of CTF151. We regard you as brothers and it is a great pleasure to hand over a strong and successful task force to a brother.”

Pakistan Navy will lead CTF-151 for the next six months, alongside CTFs 150 and 152, which are currently led by the Royal Saudi Navy and the Saudi Border Guard respectively. Though the 33-nation group that makes up the Combined Maritime Forces is headquartered in Bahrain, their activities spread as far as Suez in the northwest and far down into the Indian Ocean.

“Ever since inception of CTF-151, Pakistan Navy has been an active member of the Naval Coalition by providing ships and aircrafts sorties from time to time to counter the menace of Piracy in the region,” said Commodore Munib at the event. “[Maritime security] remains vital to ensure free flow of trade and maritime activities to maintain global peace and prosperity.”

Attending the changeover ceremony were His Excellency Mr Afzaal Mahmood, Ambassador of Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Kingdom of Bahrain; His Excellency Mr Kemal Demirciler, Ambassador of Turkey; Rear Adm. Mohammad Yousif Al-Asam, Commander of the Royal Bahrain Naval Force, as well as numerous senior officers from coalition militaries.

The Commander of the Pakistan-led Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151), Commodore Abdul Munib SI (M) held a recent engagement with the Commander of the Royal Bahrain Naval Force (RBNF), Rear Admiral Mohamed Yousif Al-Asam at their headquarters.

The RBNF has a long history of supporting counter-piracy and maritime security operations in the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) Area of Operations. While thanking the Admiral for the two Bahraini staff officers supporting CTF-151, Cdre Munib said; “I am extremely delighted at the wonderful job your officers are doing in the CTF-151 team. This helps, not only with mutual learning, but also for capacity-building amongst member nations.”

“The measure of performance at CTF-151 is to have zero incidents of piracy in the region. We are continuously working to maintain this status in the region,” added Cdre Munib. “The cooperation and support extended by RBNF has helped the CMF forces in a big way to achieve this success.”

RAdm Mohamed Yousif summarised the meeting; “We are fighting against a common threat. Pakistan are our brothers and we will extend all-out support for your future operations here in CTF-151.”

The Commander of Pakistan-led Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151) held a recent engagement via Zoom with the Commander of the Coastguard and Deputy Commander of the Djibouti Marine Nationale.

Commodore Abdul Munib SI (M) of Pakistan Navy followed the current Covid-19 trend of using Zoom conference calling to discuss future collaboration and encourage counter-piracy capability development. The virtual meeting also validates that despite Covid-19 restrictions, the CTF-151 mission to engage with regional partners remains at the forefront of CMF’s operational activity.

“We share a common goal – to ensure free flow of commerce,” said Cdre Munib. “At CTF-151, our measure of success is to ensure zero piracy incidents. We are already there, now we need to maintain it. Our mutual cooperation and coordination can make this happen.” He added his desire to assist Djibouti in its pathway to joining the CMF as a member nation, further enhancing cooperation between participant nations. Colonel Waiss Omar Bogoreh of the Djibouti Coastguard concurred; “We will continue to support CMF operations with our assets and personnel.”

In an earlier meeting during the Turkish Navy command of CTF-151, Djibouti proposed liaison officers from their Coastguard. The success of this liaison hasn’t gone unnoticed; “Having an additional officer from Djibouti Coast Guard would be of great value to build our capacity and enhance cooperation and coordination.” added Col Bogoreh. “I am ready to cooperate further and keep lines of communication open and share more information in order to keep this region safe. I look forward to see more representation from Djibouti in CMF in the future.”

Merchant vessels transiting through the Southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden can enhance their maritime security by following the guidance provided in BMP5, which includes using Armed Security Teams, using the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor (IRTC), and notifying the UKMTO in Dubai of their progress. 

Outside of CMF partners, CTF 151 regularly work with other maritime security partners such as EUNAVFOR and Independent Deployers to provide a continuous military presence in the region.

CTF-151 Commander Commodore (Cdre) Abdul Munib SI (M) recently held a video teleconference with the Commander of EUNAVFOR’s Task Force-465 (TF-465), Commodore Diogo Arroteia.

While Cdre Munib was at CMF HQ in Bahrain, Cdre Arroteia was operating from the Spanish frigate Reina Sofía, as they actively conduct counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia. Cdre Munib thanked Cdre Arroteia for his continuous support in providing TF-465 ships and maritime patrol aircraft; “We have been supporting each other well out at sea to maintain our force flow and respond to maritime security events. We need to maintain this coordination in the future as well.”

“Together, we need to keep our guard up for any suspicious activity out at sea and relay information to all stakeholders; the area of operations is big, and working in collaboration is key to conducting effective patrols independently,” he added.

After assuming command of the CTF-151 on behalf of the Pakistan Navy in December 2020, Cdre Munib is keen to build on the relationship between the two groups, suggesting future joint Focused Operations to further enhance interoperability and build capacity through shared training. This partnership-led way of working feeds directly into the CTF 151 mission to deter, disrupt and suppress piracy at sea, and send a powerful message of reassurance to the merchant maritime community.

Additionally, Cdre Arroteia highlighted a new TF-465 mandate. Under this new arrangement, the non-executive tasks of TF-465 will include countering illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing; and further activity countering drugs, weapons, and charcoal trafficking. Executive tasks will include countering illegal drugs and weapons trafficking. Cdre Munib acknowledged that these adjustments are a welcome improvement and important steps to increase maritime domain awareness, resulting in a more efficient counter-piracy mission.

A large multinational counter-piracy operation has been conducted by the Pakistan-led Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 in the Gulf of Aden.

Focused Operation (FO) TAHAFFUZ was held from 26 February to 5 March, 2021, and was supported by assets from nine different nations with a shared objective to protect global maritime commerce.

“FO TAHAFFUZ was conducted to support Combined Maritime Forces (CMF)’s overall campaign objectives of deterring suspected pirates from re-commencing their operations in the region,” said Chief of Staff to Commander CTF 151, Captain Adnan Laghari of Pakistan Navy. “Although the FO is now concluded, we still encourage all merchantmen plying through the Gulf of Aden to keep following the Best Management Practice BMP5 guidelines, and using the Internationally Recognized Transit Corridor for their safety.”

In addition to Pakistan Navy, the US Navy, Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force, Hellenic Navy, Spanish Navy, and European Union Naval Force Somalia (Operation ATALANTA) all supplied their assets to the operation. The Canadian detachment of Unclassified Remote-Sensing Situational Awareness system also supported the Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance effort and contributed Pattern of Life assessments to the task force.

There was also a significant effort from the Djibouti and Yemen Navies and Coast Guards and the Royal Navy of Oman, who contacted merchant vessels sailing through the area, alerting them to the presence of warships through Maritime Awareness Calls.

Finally, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) office in Dubai, Marine Operation Centre in Djibouti, Maritime Security Centre – Horn of Africa, Maritime Security Centre at Oman and Joint Maritime Information Coordination Centre in Pakistan all provided additional contributions to the operation, alerting merchant shipping to expect an increase in military activity and ensuring swift sharing of information between all maritime stakeholders.

And the military activity was not just limited to the sea; maritime patrol aircraft and helicopters from both CMF and EUNAVFOR provided overwatch across the Gulf of Aden and off the Somali coastline. 

“The goal of FO TAHAFFUZ is to show presence, reassure merchant and fishery communities and improve understanding of local Patterns of Life. The FO has significantly enhanced interoperability between regional counter-piracy forces, and hence contributed to build regional counter-piracy capability.” Commodore Abdul Munib of Pakistan Navy, Commander of CTF-151 said.

Through constant cooperation between CMF nations and partners, CTF-151 has for many years helped to maintain the integrity of vital lines of communication and successfully mitigated the risk of piracy in the area of Gulf of Aden and Somali Basin, especially through strategic waterways such as the Bab-el-Mandeb.

The Gulf of Aden is of immense importance to maritime trade as the main shipping lane between the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. With the monsoon season fading, and sea conditions becoming favourable for sailors, there has been a large increase in the number of small fishing vessels, skiffs and dhows in operation close to the coastlines of neighbouring states.

Pakistan’s Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi visited Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) headquarters in Bahrain, March 15.

During the visit he met with Commodore Abdul Munib SI (M), the Pakistan Navy Commander of CTF-151, and Royal Navy Commodore Ed Ahlgren, deputy commander of CMF, to discuss Pakistan’s contribution to the enduring CMF partnership, and the ongoing success in deterring piracy from the Gulf of Aden and the Gulf of Oman.

In the past year, there have been no successful piracy attempts on merchant vessels in the CTF-151 area of operations; no mean feat given the vast area of water covered.

“CMF works so well because of the relationship between strategic partners, regional forces and international organizations to deliver maritime security operations and to build maritime security across the region,” said Ahlgren. “This in turn will benefit the overall commercial and military shipping industry by helping to safeguard these waters from illicit behaviour on the high seas.”

Pakistan assumed command of CTF-151 for the 9th time in December 2020, marking the twentieth command tenure by the country’s naval force; “The Chief of Naval Staff visit underpins Pakistan’s continued commitment and resolve to join hands with coalition partners against common threats,” said Munib.

Recent endeavours, including the Focused Operation Tahaffuz which took place at the beginning of March, are an ideal example of the coalition model at work. This saw nine different nations participating in large-scale joint maritime and air patrols all aimed at improving interoperability whilst deterring illicit activity.

Commander of Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, Commodore Abdul Munib SI (M) visited the Chief of Staff of the Sultan’s Armed Forces, Vice Admiral Abdullah Bin Khamis Al Raisi, and the Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman, Rear Admiral Saif Bin Nassir Al Rahbi in Oman. 

The meetings, held on 8^th April under strict COVID guidelines, included talks around future capacity building and counter-piracy operations in and around the Gulf of Aden.  All parties were keen to provide complete support for CMF operations.

Commander of CTF-151, Commodore Abdul Munib (L) and the Commander of Royal Navy of Oman, Rear Admiral Saif Bin Nassir Al Rahbi (R) discuss mutual interests, maritime security and enhancing cooperation and collaboration between CMF and the Royal Navy of Oman. (Photo: Combined Task Force 151).

During their visit, RAdm Al Rahbi praised Cdre Munib on his team’s successful conduct of their recent Focused Operation (FO) Tahaffuz, which saw assets from nine nations coming together to deter piracy and reassure the maritime community. “Participation of RNOV Khassab in Tahaffuz has helped us in refining new tactics and procedures, and we intend to continue our mutually-beneficial support to CMF operations,” said RAdm Al Rahbi. Focused Operations like this one are a core component of CTF-151 activity, and are an enduring example of CMF’s commitment to maintain order at sea.

Commander of CTF-151, Cdre Abdul Munib (Center) and the Omani Chief of Staff, Sultan’s Armed Forces VAdm Abdullah Bin Khamis Al Raisi (R) exchange souvenirs (Photo: Combined Task Force 151).

“I thank you for participation of your ship in FO Tahaffuz. This interaction gave us an opportunity to contribute to RNO capacity building during counter piracy operations. We can see a clear improvement in our efforts to streamline the communication procedures between RNO ships and CMF HQ”, said Cdre Munib. “We encourage the RNO to continue to participate in CMF operations with surface assets, especially within Oman’s Exclusive Economic Zone”, he added.

Following their meeting, Munib received a tour of the Oman Maritime Security Center (MSC). The MSC is responsible for command and control of maritime security operations in the Omani maritime zone, fighting organized crime, illegal trading, piracy, maritime terrorism, smuggling, providing protection of fisheries and Search and Rescue support. MSC also shares data with a number of international maritime security agencies monitoring threats to maritime security. 

Commander of CTF-151, Cdre Abdul Munib (Center) and his staff receive a brief from Maritime Security Center officials on its roles and tasks in maritime security operations, search and rescue, and maritime environment protection. (Photo: Combined Task Force 151).

“I convey my appreciation, on behalf of Vice Admiral Sam Paparo, Commander CMF, for all the support given by MSC during CMF operations. By working together, we have managed to suppress piracy and keep the waters safe for all legitimate mariners,” said Cdre Munib. “We need to ensure timely exchange of intelligence to reduce the space of maneuver for illicit actors and pirates in the maritime domain. Through this information sharing, we also update the pattern of life data at CMF, which allows us to deploy our assets in the right place in a timely manner”, he added.

Earlier in the same day, Munib held a separate visit with the Director General of the Royal Oman Police Coast Guard (ROP-CG). Brigadier General (Engineer) Ali Bin Saif Al Muqbali discussed capacity building, legal finish and information sharing at length.

Commander of CTF-151, Cdre Abdul Munib (L) and Director General Royal Oman Police Coast Guard, Brig. Gen. Ali Bin Saif Al Muqbali exchange gifts. (Photo: Combined Task Force 151).

(L to R:) Director General Royal Oman Police Coast Guard, Brig. Gen. Ali Bin Saif Al Muqbali, Commander CTF-151 Cdre Abdul Munib, Pakistan Defense Attaché Capt. Kashif, visit the Royal Oman Police Coast Guard HQ. (Photo: Combined Task Force 151).

Though not a CMF member nation, Oman offers a huge amount of assistance to CMF by providing basing and logistic facilities to ships at Duqm, Salalah and Muscat, as well as overflight for aircraft. Oman’s geographical position gives the nation a great understanding of maritime security issues in the Arabian Gulf, through the Straits of Hormuz and into the Indian Ocean.

The Japanese warship Ariake will be heading home after completing five months of counter-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden. Led by Commander Naritaka Ezawa, JS Ariake, a Murasame Class Destroyer, has conducted safeguarding duties for hundreds of merchant ships on their transit through the region. Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 Commander, Commodore Abdul Munib SI (M) has offered special thanks to the Ariake for her support to the Task Force’s important mission.

During her time in support of CTF-150, JS Ariake participated in additional focused operations to deter piracy activities. The Ariake crew has also engaged in several Passage Exercises, demonstrating their ability to operate alongside warships from other nations.  The ability to operate together, despite a potential language barrier, is key to the success of CTF-151 in combating piracy. The more warships use a common set of standard operating procedures, the greater the flexibility provided at the command level within CTF-151 Headquarters in Bahrain. This also encourages better cohesion and understanding when multinational operations are conducted.

The Japan Maritime Self Defense Force has deployed another destroyer, the JS Setogiri, to continue the vital work to secure freedom of navigation for the millions of tons of merchant shipping that transits through the region annually. “JS Ariake’s dedication and professionalism have been essential for successful anti-piracy operations. Thank you very much for supporting CTF-151 in so many ways,” said Cdre Munib.

Cdre Munib welcomed JS Setogiri and Commander Shinya Sato on joining CTF-151 and extended his thanks to the JMSDF. “Their contribution to this international effort ensures that global maritime trade is not impacted by the threat of piracy activities, especially in the Gulf of Aden,” said Cdre Munib.

The last successful attack in the High-Risk Area was in 2017, however the situation in Somalia remains unstable. The threat of famine, potential terrorist activity and the Covid-19 pandemic are all destabilizing factors and present a risk to the security of the region.

The international community have a presence in the Gulf of Aden to prevent piracy returning to the region.  Both Ariake and Setogiri are significant contributors to this mission.

Combined Maritime Forces’ counter-piracy task force commander, Commodore Abdul Munib SI (M), and the commander of Pakistan’s Navy flotilla in the region, Commodore Khan Muhamad Asif SI (M) visited the U.S. Coast Guard Patrol Force Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA) squadron training facility in Bahrain.

The Commodores and their teams, including the Commanding Officers of Pakistan ships PNS Alamgir and PNS Azmat received a briefing from PATFORSWA Commanding Officer Captain Willie L. Carmichael before touring the engineering warehouse and the Maritime Engagement Team facility. 

The tour included the unique ‘Ship in a Box’ – a 1:1-scale mockup of a dhow inside an environmentally-controlled facility, used to train ships’ boarding teams on Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) procedures. The facility also contains mock up containers of a merchant vessel on which similar procedures are practiced.

“This facility provides an excellent opportunity for CMF member nations to train their crew for Maritime Security and Counter Piracy Operations,” said Cdre Munib.

“The highest standard of professionalism displayed by the CMF and U.S. Coast Guard boarding teams during maritime security operations at sea is a testament to the necessity of such a world class training facility,” he added.

Enhancing interoperability between partner nations remains a key area of focus at the Combined Maritime Forces. Training facilities such as the Maritime Engagement Team facility at PATFORSWA provides task force command teams with an opportunity to standardize procedures and techniques for Maritime Security Operations across a group of partner nations.

With the monsoon season – which makes sea conditions favourable for smaller shipping vessels – over, a large multinational counter piracy operation has been conducted by the Combined Maritime Forces in the Gulf of Aden.

The operation, named Operation Shamal after the strong winds that blow from the north bringing sandstorms to the region, was designed to increase military patrolling in the area around the Gulf of Aden and the Horn of Africa.

The area is of immense importance as the main shipping lane from the Indian Ocean to the Mediterranean passes through it. With the Monsoon diminishing and sea becoming favourable for sailors, there has been a large increase in the number of smaller fishing vessels, skiffs and dhows operating again, mainly closer to the coastlines of coastal states.

“Focused Operation Shamal was conducted to demonstrate to potential pirates and sponsors of piracy that there is a significant military force in the region that would deal with any attempted piracy attack,” said CTF 151 Operations officer, Lieutenant Commander Yoo Sanghun of the Republic of Korea Navy.

“We are also here to reassure our partners on merchant ships that despite the increase in small boat activity, the military is there to respond,” he added.

The Operation was an international affair, with support from CMF members Pakistan, the Republic of Korea, the United States and the Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force.

The Pakistan Navy ship Zulfiquar and the ROK ship Dae Jo Yeong drilled together during a Passing Exercise. The exercise is a testimony of the skills and professionalism of the respective navies and demonstrated their abilities to enhance interoperability at sea.

There was also a significant contribution from Djibouti and Oman, with Djibouti’s coastguard and the Royal Navy of Oman playing a vital part in contacting merchant vessels sailing through the area, alerting them to the presence of warships and gathering essential information about any suspicious activity they’d seen during their transit.

The UKMTO office in Dubai contributed to the operation. alerting merchant shipping to expect an increase in military activity, both visually and on VHF.

Military activity during the operation was not just limited to the sea; maritime patrol aircraft from both CMF and EU NAVFOR-participating countries contributed significantly to the operation, providing an overwatch right across the entire piracy High Risk Area. They identified potential piracy activity at an early stage, whether in the Somalian based known piracy camps or at sea.

“It is always pleasing when we are able to grow our capability by having so many countries operating closely together, whether it’s patrol aircraft and warships tactically maneuvering together or nation states coordinating their navies and coastguards to deliver freedom of navigation in a long term strategy,” said Rear Admiral Nejat Inanir of the Turkish Navy, Commander of CTF 151.

The region is in a state of transition between monsoon seasons; October is one of the busiest times for small fishing craft and dhows to operate and there will be an increase in small dhow traffic between the various ports on both sides of the Gulf of Aden. Merchant ships are encouraged to use the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor (IRTC), where they are less likely to have any interaction with the smaller fishing skiffs, which are occasionally mistaken for pirates.

Warships and maritime patrol aircraft continuously patrol the Gulf of Aden throughout the year, but will be particularly vigilant in these weather transition zones. It’s vital to protect world trade through vulnerable chokepoints. With the seafarer hostages being released by pirates earlier this month, it’s a key reminder that organisations including CMF’s CTF 151 play a fundamental role to deter piracy from interrupting the free passage of these crucial sea lanes.

“It’s been a very successful operation,” said Rear Admiral Nejat Inanir. “Operation Shamal has provided a timely reminder to the maritime community that there is an international effort to maintain the free flow of commerce, today and always.”

In a recent Zoom call, the commander of the Combined Task Force 151, Rear Admiral Nejat Inanir, spoke with the Head of the Djibouti Coastguard, Colonel Waiss Omar Bogoreh to discuss their continued partnership in conducting counter-piracy operations.

Rear Admiral Inanir thanked Colonel Bogoreh for his support in a recent counter piracy operation, Focused Operation Shamal. “It’s been a job really well done. Your assistance is very much appreciated,” said Rear Admiral Inanir. He also passed on a personal message of gratitude from the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) commander, Vice Admiral Samuel Paparo.

While Djibouti is not a member of CMF, CTF 151 regularly works closely with the nation’s Navy and Coastguard to support maritime security operations in the region, sharing information and informing merchant vessels transiting through their waters when military assets are working to protect the region’s shipping lanes nearby.

Colonel Bogoreh said: “We are always willing collaborate further with CMF. We have eight or nine years of a history of working together in what is a very successful relationship.”

The Republic of Korea Navy has marked a milestone by providing one million miles of convey support for counter piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden.

The Republic of Korea Navy destroyer which is marking the achievement, the Dae Jo Yeong, has accompanied over 500 merchant vessels since June this year, under various taskings including that of the Combined Maritime Forces’ (CMF) Combined Task Force (CTF) 151. The ship has also supported several counter piracy operations for EU NAVFOR.

“The Dae Jo Yeong’s deployment is a remarkable achievement and I am very grateful to Captain Lim Byung Hwan and his crew for all their endeavors in ensuring that there were no piracy attacks on merchant shipping during his ship’s deployment.” said Rear Admiral Nejat Inanir, Commander of CTF 151.

The Republic of Korea first deployed warships to the region in 2009 and the Dae Jo Yeong’s activities have helped the CMF member achieve the milestone this year. As the Dae Jo Yeong heads back home, another Chung-mu Gong Yi Sun Shin class destroyer will deploy to replace her. The Choi Young will be keen to follow in her footsteps and help the Republic of Korea achieve many more miles of safe convoys.

Counter piracy operations are part of an international effort to deter the threat of piracy in order to protect global trade. The last successful attack in the High Risk Area was in 2017, but the threat of piracy remains.

The Combined Maritime Forces’ Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 welcomed the Commanding Officer of JS Ariake, the Japanese Destroyer which has been assigned to work with the task force.

Rear Admiral Nejat Inanir, Commander of CTF 151, welcomed the Japanese ship’s Commanding Officer, Commander Ezawa Naritaka, at a meeting at the Bahrain-based headquarters.

Japan has an enduring commitment to counter piracy operations, having deployed warships to the Gulf of Aden for many years. These deployments ensure safe transits for commercial merchant vessels passing through the region and the area known as the Maritime Security Transit Corridor. The Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force also deploys Maritime Patrol Aircraft in the region to oversee all shipping vessels, providing an early warning system to the nearest warship if any piracy activity is observed.

Rear Admiral Inanir said: “I believe that the continuous presence of our forces and wills in critical areas are fundamental for the success of Counter Piracy operations. In this aspect, JS Ariake is a vital asset to CTF 151 because she convoys vessels in the High Risk Area and provides a force that can collect information and deter piracy activities in our operational area.”

“I would like to take this opportunity to extend my sincere gratitude and welcome to JS Ariake for participating in Counter Piracy operations as a supporting unit of CTF 151,” he added.

The Ariake takes over from the JS Ohnami, another destroyer, which has been deployed on counter-piracy operations in the region for over six months.