Pakistan Navy assumed command of the Combined Task Force-150 (CTF-150) for the 14th time on Thursday in Bahrain. Commodore Muhammad Yasir Tahir took over from Commodore Fahad S. Al Joaid of the Royal Saudi Naval Forces. The task force operates under the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).
Commodore Tahir said his team is ready to uphold the responsibility and enhance maritime security across the region. He reaffirmed Pakistan Navy’s commitment to counter illicit maritime activities and protect vital sea lanes in the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Oman.
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CTF-150 focuses on deterring non-state actors engaged in trafficking weapons, drugs, and other illegal goods. The task force covers the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Gulf of Oman. Pakistan Navy ships have previously conducted successful anti-narcotics operations during the RSNF’s command, demonstrating their operational expertise.
The change of command ceremony was attended by the Pakistan Ambassador to Bahrain, Commander of CMF, Royal Bahrain Naval Forces officials, and representatives from several other navies. The event highlighted the collaborative efforts of CMF to maintain regional maritime stability.
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Analysts say Pakistan Navy’s repeated leadership of CTF-150 strengthens its international profile and demonstrates its commitment to ensuring safety in strategic sea lanes. The 14th command reinforces Pakistan’s role in multinational maritime security operations.