Navy hands over Command of Combined Task Force 151

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Navy handed over on Tuesday the command of Combined Maritime Task Forces (CMF) Combined Task Force 151 on May 31 to Japanese Navy at a formal change of command ceremony held at the HQs of Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) BAHRAIN. Commodore Asif Hameed, handed over the command to Japanese Commander CTF-151, Rear Admiral Hiroshi.
The handover ceremony was graced by Admiral John W Miller; the Commander of Combined Maritime Forces, said a press release issued by PN. Addressing on the occasion, Commodore Asif Hameed said Piracy in the Horn of Africa (HoA) was once beyond controllable limits when this region became highest maritime piracy-prone region in the world.
In order to counter this menace which had sent ripples throughout the global supply chain, the maritime nations employed their ships to conduct patrols. Due to combined efforts of Counter- Piracy Forces, Independent Deployers (IDs) and the Maritime industry, the piracy, although reduced significantly, continues to present an intricate threat and thus warrants Counter-Piracy Forces to remain alert and focused on the job. The relinquishing Commander further added that Pakistan Navy since 2004, has been providing ships and aircraft to CMF for achieving shared aim of maintaining peace and stability on High Seas. Admiral Millar in his speech appreciated Pakistan Navy’s professionalism and determination for continued support to CMF cause and maritime commons. He congratulated Commodore Asif Hameed for an exceptional work done as CCTF-151, thereby successfully commanding a tremendously challenging Task Force. Pakistan Navy, in the back drop of UN Security Council resolution, joined Task Force 151 (CTF-151) in 2009; a Multi-national Naval coalition and one of three Task Forces being operated by Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) to combat piracy, and since then is an integral part of the Task Force. Pakistan Navy concluded her sixth successful command of CTF- 151, which is manifestation of trust and respect enjoyed by Pakistan Navy amongst coalition partners, as well as its commitment towards ensuring a safe and secure maritime environment in the region.