New Zealand will join the campaign against narcotics smuggling in the Indian Ocean next year by taking command of an international task force and deploying a frigate and a mine countermeasures team to the region.
Commodore Rodger Ward will command Combined Task Force 150 (CTF 150), which is dedicated to interceptions of vessels suspected of drug trafficking in the international waters of the Middle East and northern Indian Ocean.
CTF 150 is part of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) coalition safeguarding maritime security throughout the Gulf regions. Counter-terrorism is one of the coalition’s primary missions, since terrorist organisations are commonly funded through criminal activities such as smuggling narcotics.
For the first time in nine years, a Royal New Zealand Navy frigate will take part. HMNZS Te Kaha will join CTF 150 and be directed to intercept vessels suspected of smuggling.
The last time a New Zealand frigate deployed for this role was in 2015, when Te Kaha operated under a French-led CTF 150.
A Royal New Zealand Navy Mine Counter Measures Task Unit from HMNZS Matataua will also be deployed to the region. The team will consist of specialist mine clearance divers, hydrographers, and autonomous systems to undertake mine countermeasures and clearance operations from May to December.
It is the second time New Zealand has commanded CTF 150, with Commodore Ward taking up his six-month appointment in January, headquartered in Bahrain.