Pakistan Navy Takes Over Command of Critical Maritime Task Force

KARACHI: Pakistan Navy took over the command of Combined Task Force-150 (CTF-150) during a change of command ceremony held at the Headquarters of Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), Bahrain.

Commodore Muhammad Yasir Tahir of Pakistan Navy assumed command from Commodore Fahad S. Al Joaid of the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF).

A press release from the Pakistan Navy stated that while addressing the audience, the incoming Commander CTF-150 assured his team was fully prepared to shoulder this prestigious responsibility and contribute towards maritime security and stability across the region.

Commodore Yasir also reaffirmed Pakistan Navy’s resolve to counter illicit maritime activities, ensuring the safety and security of vital sea lines of communication.

CTF-150 is one of the five task forces operating under CMF. Its mission is to deter and disrupt non-state actors engaged in trafficking weapons, narcotics, and other illicit goods across the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Gulf of Oman.

Anti-narcotics operations conducted by Pakistan Navy ships during RSNF’s command of CTF-150 exemplify the navy’s resolve and commitment to regional peace and security through collaborative maritime efforts.

The change of command ceremony was attended by Ambassador Saqib Rauf of Pakistan to Bahrain, CMF Commander Vice Admiral Curt A. Renshaw, Royal Bahrain Naval Forces Commander Rear Admiral Ahmed Mohamed Ebrahim Al Bin Ali, and representatives from several navies operating under the CMF.

Published in Dawn on January 30th, 2026.