Finland has officially joined the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), becoming the 43rd member of the world’s largest maritime security partnership.

Vice Admiral George Wikoff, the commander of CMF, officially welcomed Finland, praising the country’s long history of maritime professionalism. “They will enhance our already impressive partnership here in the Middle East,” said Wikoff.

The CMF is an international naval coalition that focuses on defeating terrorism, preventing piracy, promoting safe maritime environments, and encouraging regional cooperation. It is renowned for upholding the international rules-based order and supporting security and stability across 3.2 million square miles of water which includes some of the world’s most crucial shipping lanes.