Canada Assumes Command International Counter-Terrorism Naval Task Force

Code name operation ARTEMIS

Operation ARTEMIS is the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) contribution to CTF 150, a multinational task force conducting maritime security and counter-terrorism operations in Middle Eastern waters. 

Commodore Dan Charlebois of the Royal Canadian Navy assumed command of Combined Task Force 150 (CTF 150) today, during a change of command ceremony held at Naval Support Activity, Bahrain. Commodore Charlebois assumed command from Rear Admiral Sulieman Al Faqeeh of the Royal Saudi Navy.

“I am proud to see Canada take the lead of CTF 150 yet again. This is a clear demonstration of the confidence our partners have in the manifest expertise and professionalism of the Canadian Armed Forces. Our participation, and continued presence in the Middle East, highlights Canada’s enduring commitment to maritime security and stability in the region and around the world. Canadians, as well as our partners and allies, all benefit from the legitimate global trade that is protected by efforts like those of Op ARTEMIS, which reduce the threat of terrorism and illegal activities in Middle Eastern waters and beyond.” Lieutenant-General Christopher Coates, Commander Canadian Joint Operations Command

Canada has deployed 31 CAF personnel and one Department of National Defence civilian employee to the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) Headquarters in Bahrain to lead CTF 150 until July 2021. Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship Calgary is expected to join this Op ARTEMIS deployment in spring 2021.

Commanding CTF 150 reflects Canada’s commitment to work with its partners to tackle the global terrorist threat and demonstrates the confidence of our allies and coalition partners in the CAF’s ability to lead multinational forces.

Canada has been a part of CTF 150 for two decades, starting in 2001 to 2003 as part of Operation APOLLO, and later from 2004 to 2008, where seven Royal Canadian Navy ships served with CTF 150 on Operation ALTAIR. The mission officially changed its name to Operation ARTEMIS in 2012, and has been called such ever since.

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