The "Maritime Defense Coalition" Enhances Operational Readiness with the Participation of 41 Countries
The Jeddah meeting discussed capability integration and preparation for operational execution and the protection of freedom of navigation.
The multinational defensive maritime coalition held its fourth planning meeting at the Western Fleet Command in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with the participation of 154 representatives from naval commanders, planners, ambassadors, and European Union representatives, representing 41 friendly and partner countries.
The Saudi Ministry of Defense stated in a press release on Friday that the meeting comes as part of the coalition’s continued transition from the establishment phase to active operations after reaching initial operational capability. It is now working on integrating capabilities and preparing for operational execution and a physical presence in the maritime area of operations.
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The ministry added that the meeting discussed recent developments and achievements during the previous phase, as well as progress in countries joining the coalition. It noted that the phase saw several countries sign the charter and joint statement, while there are currently 28 liaison officers. The meeting also discussed the requirements for joint operations and identified the missions and capabilities of participating countries, supporting the coordinated and integrated operational execution of the coalition and enhancing its operational readiness.
The ministry clarified that the fourth planning meeting represents an advanced stage in the coalition’s trajectory, as the focus shifts to enhancing operational readiness and preparing for operations under a unified command, leading to deployment and the commencement of operational missions in the area of responsibility. This is based on the principle that protecting freedom of navigation, maritime passages, and straits is a shared international interest requiring effective partnership, diverse capabilities, and collective response.
The ministry affirmed that the coalition is working to support the security and safety of maritime navigation in accordance with international law, within a multinational operational environment based on unified command, capability integration, information sharing, and coordination of efforts to counter threats targeting the security of navigation and maritime passages in the area of responsibility.
