MANAMA, Bahrain — Combined Task Force 151 (CTF 151), under the command of the Brazilian Navy, recently launched Focused Operation Mare Liberum V.

Mare Liberum V is a multinational initiative designed to deter piracy and strengthen maritime security across the Gulf of Aden, the Bab al-Mandeb Strait and the Somali Basin — routes essential to global trade and maritime stability in the Western Indian Ocean.

Conducted within the framework of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) — the world’s largest naval partnership with 47 member nations — the operation brings together naval and air assets from several partner nations, in close coordination with the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) Operation ATALANTA and regional Maritime Security Centers.

“Our goal is to keep secure seas through cooperation, coordination and communication,” said Rear Adm. Marcelo Lancellotti, commander, CTF 151. “By sharing information and aligning patrols, we deter piracy, reinforce multinational coordination and help ensure the uninterrupted flow of maritime commerce.”

Throughout the operation, participating units will conduct joint patrols, maritime awareness activities and information exchange to enhance maritime domain awareness in key shipping lanes and high-risk areas.

“Mare Liberum V is a flexible operation that combines deterrence with innovation,” said Lancellotti. “The integration of unmanned systems and advanced surveillance technologies will increase awareness, responsiveness and interoperability among partner forces.”

In addition to the operations at sea, CTF 151 will host the Law Seminar on Counter Piracy Actions. The event brings together international speakers to discuss legal frameworks and best practices for counter-piracy operations, fostering professional exchange and strengthening the Rules Based International Order.

CTF 151 maintains an ongoing dialogue with the global shipping industry to promote awareness and implementation of Best Management Practices – Maritime Security. Through engagement with shipping companies, coastal states and regional maritime information centers, the task force encourages preventive measures, timely reporting of suspicious activity and active participation in creating a more secure maritime environment.

Additionally, CTF 151 will conduct Maritime Security Enhancement Training activities with regional partners to reinforce procedures, build capacity and deepen interoperability across the area of operations.

CTF 151 was established as a multinational task force in January 2009, and is one of five operational task forces under CMF. In conjunction with the European Union Naval Force, and together with independently deployed naval ships, CTF 151 helps to patrol the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor.