Bahrain: In a formal ceremony, the Pakistan Navy has handed over the command of the Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151) to the Brazilian Navy. Commodore Sohail Ahmad Azmie of the Pakistan Navy officially transferred leadership to Rear Admiral Marcelo Lancellotti of the Brazilian Navy at the headquarters of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) in Bahrain. The event was overseen by Vice Admiral George Wikoff, Commander of the CMF.
During its tenure, which began in January 2025, the Pakistan Navy led CTF-151’s efforts to foster cooperative relationships with regional and international navies, notably the European Union Naval Forces’ Operation ATALANTA. This coordination was exemplified through joint patrols, including operations named ENDURING RESOLVE and OCEAN WATCH.
A significant achievement of Pakistan’s command was the execution of Focused OPERATION SEA SPIRIT, which involved collaboration among 13 CMF partner nations, naval assets from six countries, and eight Regional Coordination Centres. Commodore Azmie emphasized the importance of collaboration in promoting maritime security through Key Leadership Engagements across the region.
Reflecting on his leadership, Commodore Azmie expressed gratitude to his staff and international partners, particularly the Republic of Korea and Japan, for their support. He highlighted Pakistan Navy’s dedication to regional maritime security through active participation in CMF activities.
Rear Admiral Lancellotti, the incoming CTF 151 Commander, acknowledged the efforts of the Pakistan Navy and emphasized the ongoing commitment to enhancing cooperation among CMF nations to ensure maritime safety.
Established in January 2009, CTF 151 is a multinational task force under the CMF, working in conjunction with the European Union Naval Force and independently deployed naval ships to patrol the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including ambassadors from Pakistan, Japan, Brazil, and a Deputy Head of Mission from the Republic of Korea.