Pakistan Navy assumes command of multinational taskforce

MANAMA, Bahrain: The Pakistan Navy on Monday assumed command of a combined taskforce during a change-of-command ceremony at Naval Support Activity in Bahrain, according to a readout.

Pakistan Navy Commodore Asim Sohail Malik took control of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 from Royal Canadian Navy Captain Colin Matthews. Combined Maritime Forces Commander Vice Admiral George Wikoff was also present on the occasion.

Commodore Malik has held numerous key appointments in the Pakistan Navy, most recently as Chief Staff Officer to Commander Pakistan Fleet at Fleet Headquarters. As the new commander of CTF 150, he brings extensive experience having worked with the task force previously. This change of command marks the thirteenth time Pakistan has commanded CTF 150, the statement said.

“During the past six months I had the privilege to be the CTF 150 Commander and lead a highly competent multinational team,” Capt. Matthews said. He continued, “Today marks the end of the 6^th Canadian Command of CTF 150, but not the end of this endeavor as Pakistan assumes command of CTF 150.”

“I am grateful for Vice Adm. Wikoff’s leadership and for the support of the CMF team. I would like to extend my appreciation of all the nations who contributed to CTF 150’s successes. CTF 150 relies on the ability of CMF nations to work together toward the same goal and I am thankful for having being part of this world-class organisation.”

The CTF, established in February 2002, is one of the five operational task forces under CMF. It is tasked with conducting maritime security operations outside the Arabian Gulf. The core staff of CTF 150 previously consisted of Australians, Bahrainis, Canadians, and New Zealanders.