Pakistan Navy has assumed duties of Combined Task Force-150 (CTF-150) for the forth time from April 15 to 31 October. Command of Combined Task Force 150 is a rotational billet amongst coalition navies and Pakistan is the only regional country to have been entrusted with its command, said a press release.
Pakistan Navy has CTF-150 three times in 2006, 2007 and 2009 while Rear Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi SI (M), with PN staff would be assuming the command of Combined Task force 1250 for the fourth time from 15 April to 31 October. In addition to exercising command of CTF-150 the Admiral will also be travelling to various regional countries as part of the Theatre Security Co-operation (TSC) to promote regional contribution to overall Maritime Security. CTF-150 would also be providing regional support to Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151) in its efforts to counter the menace of piracy; where Pakistan is also an active participant with regular contribution of PN ships and staff. Ever since the events of 9/11, Pakistan has been frontline state in the fight against terrorism. One of the objectives of war against terror is to ensure regional maritime stability by preventing terrorists/extremists from extending their nefarious activities in the maritime arena.
CTF-150 operating under the ambit of Coalition Maritime Campaign Plan (CMCP) is contributing towards peace and stability in its Area of Responsibility (AOR), which stretches from Strait of Hormuz to Red Sea, covering approximately 2.4 million miles, bordering 14 nations around Gulf of Oman, Arabian Sea, Horn of Africa and Red Sea.
Pakistan Navy in line with Pakistan Government's decision to play its due role in maintaining stability and secure environment in the North Arabian Sea has been part of CTF-150 since 2004. Assignment of Command of CTF-150 to Pakistan for the fourth time is a true reflection of Pakistan Navy's professional competence through which it has made its place amongst Coalition nations.