AMO Currents - Maritime security patrol area to be established in Gulf of Aden

AMO Currents - Posted: September 2, 2008

Maritime security patrol area to be established in Gulf of Aden

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command has directed the establishment of a maritime security patrol area in the Gulf of Aden. A force of coalition warships will patrol the area and aircraft will fly in the airspace above, U.S. Central Command reported.

The patrol area is being established in support of the International Maritime Organization's ongoing efforts. Coalition actions will give the IMO time to work international preventative efforts that will ultimately lead to a long-term solution, U.S. Central Command stated.

On Aug. 21, armed pirates hijacked three ships in the Gulf of Aden off the coast of Somalia, including a bulk carrier, chemical tanker and general cargo ship, the Maritime Executive reported. The International Maritime Bureau has issued a piracy warning to all ships in the Gulf of Aden.