For much of the past two months the British Commander Task Force 150, Commodore Tony Rix, and his multi-national team have been directing a force of up to six warships using Type 23 frigate HMS St Albans as his command platform.

But with the departure of the Type 23 frigate, to be replaced by HMS Cumberland, Cdre Rix and his staff have moved ashore to Bahrain.

“It was the first time a staff of this size had ever been embarked in a Type 23 frigate for such a prolonged period,” said Cdre Rix.

“St Albans proved to be an excellent platform, but the move ashore will enable us to develop further our operations and achieve greater operational efficiency.”

Task Force 150 is currently UK-led, with participation from the armed forces of France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United States.

With a potent and diverse force of warships, it is responsible for patrols in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea.

But that mandate will shortly be extended even further, to include the Gulf of Oman, the Northern Arabian Sea and the Straits of Hormuz.

“The size of the area we now police is over two million square miles,” said Cdre Rix.

“But we have the ships, equipment and above al the determination to deter illegal activity in the area.

“Our presence has had a tangible effect in reducing piracy and other facets of illegal maritime activity, and with the increased capability we will get from establishing our headquarters ashore we will be able to contribute further to curbing these activities whilst remaining firmly focused on our prime role of supporting the multinational response to the atrocities of September 11.”

While St Albans provided al the facilities needed to run the operation, the increased responsibility shouldered by Cdre Rix meant a move ashore was the preferred option.

Bahrain, which is already host to many other Coalition commanders, offers the ability to work side-by-side with the United States and other allies as well as providing a key location in the area of interest.

“We will benefit from a larger staff, increased communications, and a prominent position inside a US base,” said Cdre Rix.

“The relocation will also enable us to build strong relations with regional agencies, other nations and the people who live and work in this area.”