Norway increases support to Combined Maritime Forces in the Red Sea

The US is leading a multinational initiative to protect civilian shipping in the Red Sea. Operation Prosperity Guardian has been established under the umbrella of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), the international maritime coalition operating in the area. Norway will deploy up to 10 additional staff officers to the CMF headquarters in Bahrain. Norwegian personnel can provide unique and sought-after expertise in naval cooperation and guidance for shipping (NCAGS).

‘Norway has one of the largest merchant fleets in the world and it is in Norway’s interests to work to ensure freedom of navigation at sea. We have unique expertise in maritime operations and experience from previous operations in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The Norwegian staff officers’ will help to coordinate movement of civilian vessels and ensure their safe passage,’ said Minister of Defence Bjørn Arild Gram.

Norway’s contribution may be adjusted as needed.

‘As we gain more information about the situation and the new operation, we will be able to consider contributing in other ways,’ said Mr Gram.

The situation in the Red Sea has escalated in recent weeks. Norway has strongly condemned all attacks against civilian vessels. 

‘The Houthi movement’s recent attacks on civilian ships in the Red Sea, including Norwegian-owned ships, are totally unacceptable. Crew members have been put in extreme danger. Innocent parties are suffering severe financial and material losses. It is essential for all of us that trade routes at sea are safe and secure,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Norway is cooperating closely with allies and partners, in both political and military efforts to ensure free and safe passage at sea. The Norwegian authorities are also in close contact with the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association.

‘Free and safe passage for civilian ships is of vital importance to Norway. There are approximately 40 Norwegian-operated ships in the area at any given time. It is in our interests to promote regional maritime security and stability in and around the Red Sea. That is why Norway taking part in this operation together with other countries,’ said Mr Eide.

 

The Combined Maritime Forces

The Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) is a multinational maritime partnership, established to uphold the rules-based international order by countering illicit non-state actors on the high seas and promoting security, stability, and prosperity across international waters, which encompass some of the world’s most important shipping lanes. CMF’s 39 member countries carry out maritime security operations in the CMF area of operations. Norway has deployed one staff officer to the CMF since 2013.