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U.S., Pakistani Ships Conduct Bilateral Operations

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070322-02
Release Date: 3/22/2007 3:35:00 PM

From USS Preble Public Affairs

USS PREBLE, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Preble (DDG 88) and Pakistani Naval Ship (PNS) Badr (D 184) conducted bilateral operations March 8 in the Persian Gulf.

The ships conducted maneuvering and flag-hoisting drills, and their vessel board, search and seizure (VBSS) teams shared boarding techniques.

Preble Commanding Officer Cmdr. Kevin Hill said interoperability in VBSS tactics strengthens the coalition’s relationship with regional mariners.

“Our objective in conducting Maritime Security Operations is to build a rapport with locals in order to gain a better understanding of the maritime environment and to ensure that local mariners understand the mission of coalition forces,” Hill said.

Maritime Security Operations (MSO) help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

Hill said conducting MSO in the region requires a team effort.

“Building an enduring, professional relationship with regional naval partners helps create a strong coalition dedicated to preventing terrorist organizations from using the world’s oceans for their benefit,” he said.

Commander Task Force 150 Royal Navy Commodore Bruce Williams echoed Hill’s remarks.

“This operation is an excellent example of how a well-prepared and effective coalition can bring security and peace of mind to all honest mariners going about their normal everyday business and a firm warning to those who wish to challenge our resolve,” Williams said.

Preble is operating as part of Commander, Task Force (CTF) 150. CTF 150 is responsible for MSO in the Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, Red Sea and North Arabian Sea.