Saudi Arabia has announced that 13 countries have formally joined a multinational maritime defence alliance, marking a major step toward the coalition’s operational launch.
The Saudi Defence Ministry said the development was announced during the third planning meeting of the Multinational Maritime Defence Alliance at Western Fleet Command in Jeddah. Representatives from 39 friendly and allied countries attended the meeting.
According to the ministry, 15 countries have signed a joint statement supporting the coalition, while 13 have completed their national procedures, signed the alliance charter and formally announced their accession.
Saudi Arabia said the latest development represents the effective launch of the maritime defence alliance and moves it into a phase of institutional and operational activation. Other participating countries are continuing their domestic procedures before formally joining.
The alliance is also rapidly developing its organisational structure. Saudi Arabia has appointed a commander for the coalition, while Pakistan has agreed to provide the deputy commander during the alliance’s first term, according to the Saudi Defence Ministry.
A headquarters for the alliance command has also been designated and its official logo approved. The participating countries are working to complete organisational, planning and operational documents required before the alliance begins full activities.
The formation of the maritime defence alliance comes as regional countries seek closer security cooperation and stronger coordination at sea. The coalition is expected to develop joint mechanisms for maritime security, while its members continue finalising the structures needed for effective operations.
