MANAMA, Bahrain – Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) assumed command of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, a multinational maritime task force, from the Pakistan Navy during a change of command ceremony, presided over by Royal Navy Commodore Dan Thomas, deputy commander of Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), July 26.

Since Jan. 28, 2026, under the command of Pakistan Navy Commodore Muhammad Yasir Tahir, CTF-150 executed a wide range of operations across its area of responsibility, contributing significantly to regional maritime security.

During this time under Tahir’s leadership, CTF-150 provided intelligence support to a major counternarcotics operation, resulting in the seizure of narcotics valued at more than $12 million. The unit also conducted a series of high-level engagements with senior civil and military leadership in the region, strengthening cooperation and advancing shared maritime security objectives.

“I must express my appreciation for the professionalism, dedication and close cooperation of partner nations during our time in command; the opportunity to lead a multinational task force has been a highly rewarding experience,” said Tahir. “In line with national policy and the vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, our command has reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to collaborative maritime security that underscores the Pakistan Navy’s enduring commitment to promoting regional stability and fostering international maritime cooperation.”

U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Curt Renshaw, commander of CMF, commended the Pakistan Navy and Tahir for his exemplary leadership during a period of heightened regional tensions.

“Despite a challenging and rapidly evolving operational environment, Commodore Tahir and his team remained steadfast in executing the mission,” said Renshaw. “They ensured uninterrupted operational continuity while demonstrating exceptional professionalism, adaptability and resilience in support of regional maritime security.”

CMF headquarters will retain direct command authority over CTF-150 until assumed by one of CMF’s 47 partner nations.

CTF 150 was established in February 2002 and is one of five operational task forces operating under CMF. CTF 150 conducts maritime security operations outside the Arabian Gulf against threats from non-state actors. CMF’s other task forces include CTF 151, which leads regional counter-piracy efforts; CTF 152, dedicated to maritime security in the Arabian Gulf; CTF 153, providing maritime security in the Red Sea; and CTF 154, which delivers maritime training.

CMF, headquartered in Bahrain alongside U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and U.S. 5th Fleet, is the world’s largest multinational naval partnership. Comprising 47 nations, CMF promotes security, stability and prosperity across approximately 3.2 million square miles of international waters, supporting the rules-based international order and safeguarding global maritime commerce.