NZer to lead counter-piracy efforts in Gulf of Aden
A New Zealander will lead international naval counter-piracy efforts in the Gulf of Aden for the first time from the end of this month.
A New Zealander will lead international naval counter-piracy efforts in the Gulf of Aden for the first time from the end of this month.
The Royal New Zealand Navy's Captain Jim Gilmour, who was previously commanding officer of the HMNZS Canterbury, will take command of the US-led counter-piracy Combined Task Force (CTF151) for three months from June 30.
Although Capt Gilmour will be in command of the international fleet, the Government is not sending a warship. He will be based aboard the USS Anzio, a guided missile cruiser.
CTF151 has previously been commanded by officers from the US, Korea and Turkey. The current commander is from Singapore.
It operates in the Gulf of Aden and off the eastern coast of Somalia with between three and six warships from contributing countries.
The New Zealand Defence Force has previously deployed frigates to the Persian Gulf as well as individual Defence Force personnel.
"These contributions have been recognised with the request by the US-led Combined Maritime Forces Headquarters for New Zealand to take the command role," said Defence Minister Wayne Mapp.
Mr Mapp said last year's Defence White Paper said it was in New Zealand's interest to counter the threat from piracy and by sending a command team the country was showing its commitment to protecting maritime security and stability.
"New Zealand relies on its sea lanes for nearly all of its trade. Our economy is impacted by piracy, even far from our shores."
NZPA
Thu, 02 Jun 2011
Thu, 02 Jun 2011
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NZer to lead counter-piracy efforts in Gulf of Aden
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