New US commander takes helm of Task Force 59 in Bahrain
US 5th Fleet region in focus
The US Naval Forces Central Command’s Task Force (TF) 59 inducted a new leader on July 30, 2024, as Captain John Barrientos took over command from Captain Colin Corridan in a formal change of command ceremony in Manama, Bahrain.
Captain Barrientos succeeds Captain Corridan, who has led TF 59 since March 2023. Under Corridan’s guidance, the task force pioneered integrating unmanned systems and artificial intelligence with the US 5th Fleet area maritime operations.
During his tenure, TF 59 engaged in over 30 exercises and operations, including notable achievements such as the US Navy’s first unmanned transit of the Strait of Hormuz and the adaptation of a commercial uncrewed aerial vehicle for military use.
Vice Admiral George Wikoff, Commander of US Naval Forces Central Command and US 5th Fleet, commended Corridan’s contributions. “Your tour has been nothing short of exceptional,” Wikoff said.
“You transformed experimental concepts into practical, real-time solutions, bridging the gap between industry, [US] Navy leadership, technology, and regional partners.”
During his command, Corridan established Task Group 59.1 in January 2024. This new task group focuses on the operational deployment of unmanned systems in conjunction with manned operators to enhance maritime security across the Middle East. It also ensures the smooth integration of emerging technologies within the operational theatre.
Farewell address
In his farewell address, Corridan highlighted his unit’s teamwork and diversity. “It was incredible to witness how diverse individuals from various nations operated cohesively. The strength of this team lay in its varied experiences and backgrounds.”
Corridan will now transition to the Disruptive Capabilities Office in Washington, DC.
Captain Barrientos, who recently completed a Chief Naval Operations fellowship with the Council on Foreign Relations in New York, takes command of TF 59 for the third time in the US 5th Fleet region.
He expressed enthusiasm about the challenges ahead. “We’re integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance maritime domain awareness and deter malign actors,” Barrientos said. “This region’s unique geography and strategic importance make it an ideal location for these efforts. I look forward to shaping the future with the dedicated team here.”
The US 5th Fleet’s area of operations covers approximately 2.5 million square miles, including the Arabian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, the Red Sea, parts of the Indian Ocean, and three critical chokepoints: the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal, and the Strait of Bab al-Mandeb. Featured image: Vice Adm. George Wikoff, commander of US Naval Forces Central Command and US 5th Fleet, centre, observes as Capt. John Barrientos, incoming commander of Task Force (TF) 59, left, relieves Capt. Colin Corridan, outgoing commander of TF 59, in Manama. Bahrain during a change of command ceremony on July 30, 2024. Credit: US Army
