By Combined Maritime Forces Public Affairs 

Manama, Bahrain – Brazilian Navy-led Combined Task Force 151 conducted operation Mare Liberum IV, “The Freedom of the Seas,” from April 28 to May 3.

“Mare Liberum IV” aimed to disrupt current piracy trends by conducting maritime security operations, targeting potential pirates and developing integration among Combined Maritime Forces members and regional partners to reassure the maritime community.

During the operation there was an increase in engagement from regional forces and contribution of maritime and air assets from CMF member nations.

These assets were distributed in the Gulf of Aden, Somali coast and western Indian Ocean, contributing to a safer maritime environment.

The operation was supported by 13 nations, eight ships and five aircraft, as well as four unmanned surface vessels and three maritime operation centers.

More than 200 maritime awareness calls were delivered to ships at sea, even from coastal radio stations.

CTF 151 has been working for 15 years in the western Indian Ocean to suppress piracy outside territorial waters of coastal states. It is committed to strengthening relationships with other regional forces operating in the maritime domain, promoting cooperation and reassuring the maritime community.