Islamabad — Pakistan Navy has officially handed over command of a key multinational naval task force to the Brazilian Navy, marking another chapter in global maritime cooperation aimed at ensuring stability and security in the region.
The change of command ceremony took place at the US Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) headquarters in Bahrain, where Pakistan transferred leadership of Combined Task Force 150 (CTF-150) — one of the principal task forces under the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).
PN successfully relinquished command of Combined Task Force 151. Cdre Sohail Ahmad Azmie of PN handed over Command to R/Adm Marcelo Lancellotti of Brazilian Navy. Ceremony was presided by V/Adm George Wikoff, Commander of Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) at HQ CMF, Bahrain. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/aMf4aiWrv4
— DGPR (Navy) (@dgprPaknavy) August 28, 2025
CTF-150 is tasked with conducting maritime security and counterterrorism operations across vast sea lanes, including the Gulf of Oman, Arabian Sea, Red Sea, and Indian Ocean. The mission focuses on disrupting terrorist networks, countering smuggling, and protecting international shipping routes vital for global trade.
Pakistan Navy, which has commanded the task force multiple times since joining CMF in 2004, was praised for its leadership in safeguarding international waters and strengthening cooperation among partner nations. During its recent tenure, Pakistan coordinated multinational patrols, enhanced information-sharing mechanisms, and carried out joint operations to deter piracy, drug trafficking, and arms smuggling.
Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of Naval Staff Pakistan, commended the professionalism of the Pakistan Navy team and reaffirmed Islamabad’s commitment to continued participation in CMF operations.
“Pakistan has always played a proactive role in promoting maritime peace and stability. Our contribution to CTF-150 reflects Pakistan Navy’s resolve to work alongside international partners in safeguarding sea lanes against threats to global commerce,” he said.
Rear Admiral of the Brazilian Navy assumed command of the task force, pledging to build on Pakistan’s achievements and further strengthen CMF’s operational effectiveness. Brazil’s leadership marks its growing role in maritime security beyond South America and highlights the inclusivity of CMF, which now brings together 44 member nations.
The Combined Maritime Forces, headquartered in Bahrain, remains the world’s largest multinational naval partnership, dedicated to countering terrorism, piracy, and smuggling while ensuring freedom of navigation.
With the handover, Pakistan once again demonstrated its role as a reliable and responsible maritime partner, committed to international peace and security.
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