Pakistan will provide the first deputy commander of the Saudi-led Multinational Maritime Defense Coalition, as the alliance works to activate its command structure and prepare for operational deployment.
The decision was made during the coalition’s third planning meeting at Western Fleet Command in Jeddah, attended by representatives from 39 countries, according to a press release from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense.
Coalition’s Focus Spans Key Maritime Chokepoints
The coalition’s operational focus covers the Red Sea, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, and the Gulf of Aden — key maritime routes linking Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
Saudi Rear Admiral Abdullah bin Salem Al-Shehri was appointed coalition commander last week, and member states are now preparing to place their officers and personnel within its command, maritime, and intelligence structures.
The coalition has also designated its headquarters, approved an official logo, and completed its organizational and planning frameworks, clearing the way for operations to begin.
Membership Still Growing
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 still working through their national approval processes.
Coalition Commander Al-Shehri said the alliance aims to build sustainable multinational maritime defense cooperation and strengthen long-term security and stability at sea.
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He said the coalition continues to receive applications from additional countries, describing the interest as a sign of growing international recognition of the need for collective action against shared maritime threats.
Current Phase Focused on Operational Readiness
According to the Saudi Ministry of Defense, the coalition’s current phase is centered on accelerating operational capabilities and improving readiness for defensive missions within its designated area of responsibility.
The coalition is designed as a permanent multinational framework for protecting freedom of navigation, commercial shipping routes, and strategic waterways, while supporting international trade and global supply chains.
From a 43-Nation Meeting to a Growing Alliance
Saudi Arabia first announced the coalition last month following a meeting in Riyadh attended by representatives from 43 countries, with 14 countries — including Saudi Arabia — initially joining the initiative. Saudi officials have said the coalition remains open to any country that shares its objectives and principles.
