Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) FS Somme, a French warship, on deployment to the Middle East, provided aid to an Iranian fishing vessel, the MV Said Al Said, in the Arabian Sea, April 21.
Somme was conducting maritime security operations in the Arabian Sea as flagship for Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 when she discovered the MV Said Al Said approximately 150 nautical miles off the coast of Oman. Somme contacted the dhow via radio where its crew indicated they were having engine trouble. The dhow’s crew said they had been at sea for 20 days and were carrying approximately 1.5 tons of fish.
Somme provided the Said Al Said with food, water, medicine, and mechanical assistance.
Rear Adm. Jean-Louis Kerignard said,
“Providing support to mariners is second nature to seafarers. On this occasion we were glad we could help MV Said al Said. We wish the crew a safe onward journey.”
CTF 150 is one of three maritime task forces operated by CMF. Its mission is to promote maritime security in order to counter terrorist acts and related illegal activities which terrorists use to fund or conceal their activities. CTF 150 is currently Commanded by France who took Command of CTF 150 in March 2011.
CMF is a unique naval partnership based in Bahrain, consisting of 25 member nations, which contribute ships, aircraft and personnel in support of the mission.
CMF works to promote security and prosperity across some 2.5 million square miles of international waters in the Middle East and is committed to defeating terrorism, preventing piracy, encouraging regional cooperation, and promoting a safe maritime environment.
Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) 