The Pakistan Navy is set to take command of Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 on January 22, 2025, marking its 11th leadership tenure in the multinational mission aimed at combating piracy in the Gulf of Aden and surrounding waters. The handover ceremony, scheduled to take place in Bahrain, will see the Pakistan Navy assume leadership from Turkey.
CTF 151, established in 2009 under the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), plays a crucial role in safeguarding maritime trade routes by tackling piracy, human trafficking, and illegal fishing. Its efforts have led to a dramatic decrease in piracy incidents in the region, with a notable decline in attacks since its deployment.
In a related development, the Pakistan Navy recently handed over command of CTF 150 to the Royal New Zealand Navy in a formal ceremony in Bahrain. Pakistan’s leadership of CTF 150, from July 2024 to January 2025, included successful operations against drug trafficking, contributing to the seizure of nearly 10 tons of illicit drugs, valued at over $50 million.
Additionally, Pakistan Navy ship PNS Yarmama’s visit to Turkish ports further strengthened naval and diplomatic ties between the two countries. The visit included a joint exercise, “Mavi Vatan,” designed to enhance cooperation and operational readiness.
As part of ongoing efforts to promote regional security, Pakistan Navy’s leadership continues to focus on international cooperation, aligning with the country’s broader foreign policy goals and its commitment to global maritime security.
