Pakistan will provide the first deputy commander of the Saudi-led Multinational Maritime Defense Coalition as the alliance moves to activate its command structure and prepare for operational deployment.
The decision was taken during the coalition’s third planning meeting at Western Fleet Command in Jeddah, attended by representatives from 39 countries, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense said in a press release.
Its operational focus includes the Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb Strait and Gulf of Aden, key maritime routes linking Asia, the Middle East and Europe.
Saudi Rear Admiral Abdullah bin Salem Al-Shehri was appointed commander of the coalition last week, while member states are now preparing to place their officers and personnel within its command, maritime and intelligence structures.
The coalition has designated its headquarters, approved an official logo and completed its organizational and planning frameworks, paving the way for the start of operations.
So far, 15 countries have signed the coalition’s joint statement, while 13 have completed the additional domestic procedures required for formal membership. Other participating countries are continuing their national approval processes.
Coalition Commander Al-Shehri said the alliance aims to establish sustainable multinational maritime defense cooperation.
He said the coalition continues to receive applications from additional countries, describing the interest as evidence of growing international recognition of the need for collective action against common maritime threats.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Defense, the current phase is focused on accelerating operational capabilities and improving readiness for defensive missions.
Saudi Arabia announced the coalition last month following a meeting in Riyadh attended by representatives from 43 countries. Fourteen countries, including Saudi Arabia, initially joined the initiative.
Saudi officials have said the coalition remains open to countries that share its objectives and principles.
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