CMF are involved in Maritime Security Operations, which help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment. The operations also complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists the use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons. In addition, one CMF task force is specifically tasked with counter-piracy operations.
Combined Maritime Forces (CMF)
Bahrain was the first place in the whole Gulf region to find oil, in 1932, which brought rapid modernisation and improvements to the country. It also made relations with the United Kingdom closer, evidenced by the British moving more bases to the island nation. Following a long association with the region and Bahrain in particular, the Royal Navy established a naval shore facility there known as HMS Juffair on April 13, 1935.
In 1949, the U.S. Navy established a regular presence in the region. In 1971, after the treaty between Bahrain and the UK expired, the British government granted the island independence. Following this, the United States, through agreement with the Bahraini government, took over part of that which had been HMS Juffair.
This has expanded over the years and is now known as Naval Support Activity Bahrain, housing the headquarters of the U.S. Fifth Fleet and 'U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (USNAVCENT). USNAVCENT supports ships and locations throughout the Commander USNAVCENT Area of Responsibility. The base is also the headquarters of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) and the home of the United Kingdom Maritime Component Command (UKMCC).
Historically, maritime activities and regional interaction had always been controlled independantly by the UK. It is no surprise therefore that coordination and coherent achievement were lacking. Following the 9/11 attacks and the increased importance of the region, the UKMCC was established when then Rear Admiral Burnell-Nugent Royal Navy deployed his HQ ashore from the UK Task Force that was coincidently in the Gulf. At the same time a strong link was forged with the growing international contribution of ships, aircraft and personnel offered up by nations to Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Consequently the Maritime Coalition was formed. In addition to leading the United Kingdom maritime force contributions the role of Deputy Coalition Force Maritime Component Commander was assigned to the United Kingdom.
Since 2003 the Coalition has continued to evolve and is now known as the Combined Maritime Force (CMF).
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