Saudi Arabia: Multinational Maritime Coalition Nears Operational Phase
On Thursday, the Western Fleet Command in Jeddah held the fourth planning meeting for the Multinational Maritime Coalition, with the participation of 14 naval commanders, planners, ambassadors, and EU representatives, to discuss the coalition's latest developments and enhance its operational readiness.
The Saudi Ministry of Defense said in a statement that the meeting is part of the coalition's transition from the establishment phase to the actual operational phase, after reaching initial operational capability. It noted that work is currently underway to integrate capabilities and prepare for operational implementation and a physical presence in the maritime operations area.
It added that the meeting discussed developments over the past period, the progress of countries joining the coalition, and the coalition's charter and joint statement, clarifying that the number of countries that have signed the memorandum of association has now reached 28.
According to the statement, the requirements for joint action and the unification of contributions and capabilities among participating countries were discussed to support the coordinated and integrated implementation of multinational defense operations and enhance the coalition's operational readiness.
The Ministry of Defense emphasized that the fourth planning meeting represents an advanced stage in the coalition's path, transitioning to a focus on enhancing operational readiness and preparing forces to operate under a unified command, leading to their deployment and the start of operational tasks in the area of responsibility. This is based on the principle that protecting the freedom of navigation and maritime corridors and straits is a common international interest requiring effective partnership, diverse capabilities, and a collective response.
It noted that the coalition works to support the security and safety of maritime navigation in accordance with international law, within a multinational operational framework based on unity of command, integration of capabilities, information sharing, and coordination of efforts to counter threats targeting the security of navigation and maritime corridors.
المصدر: Saudi Defense
