The Commander and staff of U.S. Navy Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 50 embarked HNLMS Amsterdam (A 836) April 7, joining USS Typhoon (PC5), and U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Wrangell (WPB 1332) in the Arabian Sea to conduct maritime security operations (MSO) in support of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150. MSO set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. "It's important to demonstrate that where you're from doesn't matter," said Cmdr. Georges van Aalst, Amsterdam’s commanding officer. Amsterdam is acting as flagship for Capt.