As the Turkish-led command of CTF 151 reaches its halfway point, we take a look back at the successes and achievements of the anti-piracy task force.
With several weeks of planning coming to fruition, we’ve seen the Turkish-led task force’s first Focused Operation to deter piracy, FO Shamal, took place in the Gulf of Aden alongside naval partners including Pakistan, the Republic of Korea and Spain.
Operations aside, engaging with regional and international partners remains crucial to CTF 151’s mission to deter piracy in the region. Rear Admiral Nejat Inanir, Commander of CTF 151, has held many meetings with the heads of Navies and Coastguards in Djibouti and Oman and liaised with organisations such as the UKMTO, based in Dubai.
At this time of year, the sea state in the Gulf of Aden normally subsides to conditions more favourable for small craft, such as the skiffs used by pirates, enabling them to operate again. The groundwork laid by CTF 151 means that their forces are aligned and prepared to continue to suppress and deter such activity.
As with any operational headquarters, there have also been some changes in personnel within CTF 151 during their three-month tenure so far. This has allowed personnel from a number of navies to learn, develop and share their experiences of working in a multi-national naval coalition.
“Building the capacity of our partner nations is a fundamental part of CTF 151,” said Captain Murtaza Durmazacur, Chief of Staff. “CTF 151 gives personnel the opportunity to learn from working in an operational environment – skills which they can take back to their homes.”
Lieutenant Commander Guy Wadge of the Royal Navy has recently joined CTF 151. “It’s a fascinating headquarters to work in,” he said. “With personnel from over 10 different countries, it’s a really great opportunity to learn from people with different backgrounds, cultures and languages.”
“I’d recommend a job in any of the CTFs to anyone eligible,” he added.
Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) 
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