"I'm extremely proud of our commitment to counter-terrorism through enhanced maritime security in the Middle East, which ultimately makes us safer at home. This is another example of Canada's strong military leadership on the world stage, and I have the utmost confidence in Commodore Garnier's ability to command this task force with the highest levels of excellence for which Canadian military leaders are well-known."

– General Jonathan H. Vance, Chief of the Defence Staff

"Canada's leadership role in CTF 150 is a demonstration of the high level of professionalism and expertise of the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Navy. Our participation and continued presence in this region highlights our commitment to maritime security and stability in the region and around the world."

– Rear-Admiral Craig Baines, Commander Mairtime Forces Atlantic and Commander Joint Task Force Atlantic

"On behalf of Canada and the entire incoming CTF 150 staff, I am honoured to assume command of CTF 150 and I can assure you that our joint Canadian and Australian Task Group has worked extremely hard to prepare for this important counter-terrorism mission. This deployment is a team effort and we will engage tirelessly to enhance regional cooperation and coalition interoperability, while helping to ensure maritime security and the free-flow of international trade and commerce in some of the world's busiest and most challenging waterways. As the incoming staff we are keen to build upon the enduring contributions of our predecessors and to work alongside our current Combined Maritime Forces partners in seeking opportunities to disrupt use of the high seas by terrorist groups as a pathway for illicit activities that is then used to fund or conceal their movements."

– Commodore Darren Garnier, Commander Combined Task Force 150

Quick facts

• The Canadian command contingent is supported by personnel of the Royal Australian Navy. The combined nature of this team demonstrates the close relationship between Australia and Canada as well as our shared values and interests.

• CTF 150 is one of three multinational naval task forces operated by Combined Maritime Forces:

  • CTF 150, responsible for maritime security and counter-terrorism;
  • CTF 151, responsible for counter-piracy; and
  • CTF 152, responsible for security and cooperation in the Arabian Gulf.

• Through maritime security operations, regional engagements and capacity building, CTF 150 works to deter and deny terrorist organizations from using the high seas for smuggling weapons, illicit cargo and narcotics while ensuring the safe passage of merchant ships in some of the busiest shipping lanes in the world.