Coalition ships are in the area as part of our continual presence in
this region," Centcom said. "While they have conducted routine operations in
the area in the past, the establishment of the MSPA will focus the efforts
to counter destabilizing activities in the region and improve security while
long-term initiatives mature."
Centcom said Canadian Navy Cmdr. Robert Davidson would command MPSA. The
military said MSPA would support the International Maritime Organization,
which has sought to prevent piracy.
"Coalition actions will give the IMO time to work international
preventative efforts that will ultimately lead to a long-term solution,"
Centcom said.
The U.S. Navy has urged commercial vessels to consider deploying armed
teams to block piracy off the coast of Somalia. On Sept. 21, pirates in
speedboats captured a Greek vessel with a crew of 19.
U.S. Navy Fifth Fleet commander Vice Adm. Bill Gortney has urged the
international shipping industry to assume greater responsibility for the
protection of vessels from pirate attacks. Gortney said the Fifth Fleet does
not have the resources to provide 24-hour protection for vessels that sail
in the Gulf of Aden.
"They must take measures to defend their vessels and crews." Gortney
said.
