OPERATION NAWAF led by Combined Task Force (CTF) 152 took place between 16-20 December 2018. The main objective was to conduct Maritime Security Operations in the Gulf with regional and coalition partners in order to suppress and deter the exploitation of the Maritime environment by those who perpetuate or enable terrorist and other illicit activities.

opnawaf-152 uss monsoon with boarding team
USS MONSOON WITH BOARDING TEAM TALKING TO THE CREW OF THE DHOW.

Operation NAWAF saw units from Kuwait Naval Force, Kuwait Coast Guard, Royal Saudi Naval Force, Saudi Border Security, Royal Navy and United States Navy operating together in specific areas as directed by CCTF 152.

opnawaf-152 uss monsoon with qatar coast guard 813
USS MONSOON WITH QATAR COAST GUARD 813

During this focused operation, the Headquarters command team was supported by observers from the Oman Sultani Navy and the Bahrain Coast Guard. Captain Saleh Alfodary, Kuwait Coast Guard, Commanding Officer of CTF 152 said: “It is very encouraging to see more of the regional and coalition partners working together to enhance regional security and to demonstrate that CMF is here to conduct Maritime Security Operations.”

opnawaf-152 engaging with a local dhow
BOARDING TEAM ENGAGING WITH A LOCAL DHOW

Combined Maritime Forces is composed of thirty three nations and has three principle task forces: Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, which conducts counter-terrorism and maritime security operations; CTF 151, which conducts counter piracy operations; and CTF 152, which conducts maritime security operations in the Middle East.