High-Level Naval Meeting: CTF-150 Commander Visits Sri Lanka Navy

COLOMBO (News 1st); A delegation from the Combined Maritime Forces’ Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, led by Commodore Rodger Ward, paid a courtesy call on the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda, at the Navy Headquarters on March 24, 2025.

The Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) is a multinational maritime partnership comprising 46 nations. Sri Lanka became the 39th member of CMF in 2023.

This partnership upholds the International Rules Based Order (IRBO) by countering illicit non-state actors on the high seas and promoting security, stability, and prosperity. CMF operates with five Combined Task Forces, and the Sri Lanka Navy is commanding CTF-154 for the first six months of 2025.

CTF-150 conducts Maritime Security Operations (MSO) outside the Arabian Gulf to ensure that legitimate commercial shipping can transit the region free from non-state threats.

Since January 15, 2025, the New Zealand Navy has been commanding CTF-150.

During the cordial discussion, Commodore Ward and Vice Admiral Banagoda focused on promoting a safe maritime environment free from illicit non-state actors. The official interaction concluded with an exchange of mementoes, symbolizing goodwill and cooperation.

Additionally, the Director General Operations delivered a presentation to the delegation, highlighting the Sri Lanka Navy’s critical role in maritime security operations.

The delegation is scheduled to visit the Sri Lanka Coast Guard and the Ministry of Defence during their five-day official tour, which runs from March 22 to 26.