JEDDAH,03 September, 2026 (Kamran Raja): The Multinational Maritime Defense Coalition (MMDC) has officially entered its operational phase from its command headquarters, marking a significant transition from institutional planning to active implementation of the Saudi-led maritime security initiative.Pakistan Navy Commodore Rashid Sheikh has assumed his responsibilities as Deputy Commander of the coalition, alongside liaison officers from several member states and countries currently completing their procedures to join the MMDC. Additional liaison officers will assume their assignments progressively in accordance with the number of positions allocated to each participating country. The development follows the coalition’s third planning meeting, held at the Western Fleet Command in Jeddah on August 13, which was attended by representatives from 39 countries and marked an important step toward activating the MMDC.According to the coalition, 15 countries have signed the joint statement, while 13 countries have completed their national procedures, signed the coalition charter and formally joined the organization. Other participating countries are continuing their domestic procedures for membership. The coalition has also established key elements of its institutional structure, including the appointment of a Saudi commander and an agreement for Pakistan to hold the position of Deputy Commander during the coalition’s first term.

A headquarters has been designated and the coalition’s official logo has been approved. Organizational and planning frameworks, along with reference documents required for its operations, have also been completed. The third planning meeting finalized practical arrangements for activating the coalition’s bodies and multinational command structure. Preparations have also been made to receive officers and personnel from member states and integrate them into the joint command and staff structure. The MMDC aims to establish a sustainable multinational maritime defense framework based on collective maritime security. Its objectives include protecting freedom of navigation and strategic waterways and straits, while supporting the continuity of international trade and global supply chains. With member states beginning to deploy personnel and the coalition’s command structures becoming operational, the MMDC is moving from institutional development toward integrating the capabilities of participating countries and achieving full operational readiness. The coalition seeks to strengthen maritime security and stability, safeguard freedom of navigation and shared interests, and contribute to regional and international security in accordance with its charter, reference documents and international law.